8 Office Exercises that Really Work

Written By Mandy Seay For QuickEasyfit

Your new dues-free gym.
Your new dues-free gym.

The average person sits for at least eight hours each day in front of the TV, in a car, and -- the biggest culprit -- at a desk, in front of a computer, while at work. When the day is over, even though exercise has been linked to healthy living, who wants to hit the gym? You can put the work back into workout by trying these 8 exercises without leaving your office.

1. Desk push-ups -
Stand in front of your desk then lean forward, placing hands on the edge of your desk body-width apart. Lean forward so your body is angled to the floor. Lower, then push up. Repeat as long as you want. Targets triceps.

Read Also -Best Healthy Exercise Tips for Lifetime Fitness

2. Side lunges - Stand up. Step to one side, then bend knee, creating a 90-degree angle with your leg. Pull back until your leg is angled toward the floor. Re-center, then repeat on the other side. Targets thighs and calves.

3. Backward chair push-ups - Stand up, step in front of your chair, then lower as if to sit. Catch the edge of your chair with the palms of your hands so that you are "seated" in front of your chair. Your legs will be at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Lower, raise, and repeat. For an added challenge, start "seated" in front of your chair, lower, then raise yourself until you are seated in your chair. Scoot off, catching the chair with the palms of your hands and "sit" in front of chair. Lower, then raise, then finish back in your seat. Targets thighs, calves, triceps, and shoulders.

Read Also -
DIY Home Gym- 7 Cheap Ways to Exercise At Home

4. Jumping jacks - True, your colleagues may look at your funny, but jumping jacks are a good way to get your blood pumping and reinvigorate you especially after 3 p.m. when all you want to do is go home. Targets legs and arms.

5. Shadowboxing - Probably not to be done in front of anyone, but if you have access to an empty office, close the door, and box. Targets legs and arms.

Maybe the easiest of work-based exercises: Up may get harder the higher you climb; at least going down is easier.
Maybe the easiest of work-based exercises: Up may get harder the higher you climb; at least going down is easier.

6. Chair-based strength-building exercise - While sitting (!) in your chair, lift and extend one leg, holding it up for at least two seconds. Lower leg, then lift and extend the other leg. Start with two seconds per leg, then increase the amount of time you can hold up your legs. For an added challenge as you lower one leg, raise the other. Targets calves.

Read Also -Top 10 Best Home Workouts Without Exercise Tools

7. Take the stairs - Skip the elevator. You can burn an additional 10 calories for every flight of stairs you walk.

8. Walk - Leave your desk and take a walk. If you can, walk outside. If walking outside is not an option, take laps around your office. Start a lunchtime walking group and invite colleagues to join you. Studies show that working out, and walking, with someone or in a group will motivate you to keep it up.

Read More From QuickEasyfit

Why Does Your Body Need Exercise - 8 Things to Know

Sneak Exercise into Your Day the Smart Way

Ways to Cut Down 400 Calories Every Day

Tips from Olympians for a Better and Healthier Lifestyle