Work-related injuries or disorders can happen in any type of work environment, including office jobs. Even though office jobs are less physically demanding than labor-intensive careers, positions that require you to sit for most of the day can take a toll on your health. Sitting for extended periods increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and musculoskeletal disorders, among many other negative health effects.
Taking time out of your day to regularly stretch can help reduce the risk of these negative health effects, reduce muscle fatigue, and will leave you feeling more refreshed at your desk. Here are just a couple of simple stretches you can build into your schedule to keep you active in the office:
Arm Stretch
- Extend each arm overhead
- Reach to the opposite side
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds
- Repeat on the opposite side
Upper Body Stretch
- Clasp your hands together above your head with palms facing up
- Push your arms up while stretching forward
- Hold the pose for 15 to 30 seconds
Shoulder/Chest Stretch
- Clasp your hands behind your back
- While pushing your chest outward, raise your chin
- Hold the pose for 15 to 30 seconds
Hamstring Stretch
- While seated, extend one leg outward
- Reach toward your toes
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds
Neck Stretch
- Lean your head forward
- Slowly roll your neck toward one side and hold for 10 seconds
- Repeat on each side 3 times
Implement these couple of stretches and any others you like to keep yourself active at work and to help avoid injury or discomfort stemming from your desk job.
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