8 great ways to stay active at your desk

In this modern day, sitting at a desk for extended periods seems to be the norm for most of us. And while technology is a wonderful tool, experts are discovering how bad this sedentary lifestyle can be for our health, linking it to cardiovascular disease, obesity, joint issues...the list goes on. So how can we counteract this? We've come up with a list of easy and practical ways to try and incorporate some activity into your daily life.

1. Get a stand up desk

I've listed this first as although it will be the most expensive item, I've found it the most useful. Purchasing a stand up desk allows you to alternate between standing and sitting (as neither is good for extended periods of time) providing flexibility in your day. The ideal time is to cycle between standing and sitting every 1hour (ish). This will help improve circulation, improve posture and get you moving.

2. Sit on an exercise ball

Not only is the exercise ball a bit of fun, it's great for core stability! I like to actually cross my legs and see how long I can hold a stable sit - just make sure you have something to hold in case it all goes pear-shaped. The exercise ball is also great to stretch your back out, feels amazing!

3. Walk and talk

Happen to be on a phone call? Why not try a little walk around your workspace, or if you have the option, even step outside. Fresh air will be great for the mental clarity and getting the blood moving around your body will combat some of the stiffness.

4. Have a foam roller or trigger point ball nearby

Having either a foam roller or trigger point ball in your eyeline will help remind you to hop up out of your chair and have a stretch. Foam roller is great to get all the kinks out of the back, making sure to rest over parts that are particularly niggley. Target areas to include are upper back in between the shoulder blades, and the lower spine around the sacrum. The trigger point ball can also be used on your back but if you want to stand for a while, try on the bottom of your foot - our feet are a lot tighter than we think!

5. Neck stretches

Have a quick 5 min neck stretch, staying in each of the following spots for as long as feels good. Start with chin to chest, gently rolling the head from side to side. Next move right ear to right shoulder, stretching left arm away. Move onto the left ear to the left shoulder, stretching right arm away. Finally tip your head back, clasp your hands and place them on the front of the chest with a gentle pull down, roll your head from side to side and feel the great release from your jaw.

6. Get outside during your lunch break

Whether you have time for a stroll and simply just sitting in the sunshine, the fresh air will do wonders for the body, mind and soul.

7. Drink more water

Drinking more water is three fold - not only will you have to get up and move to fill up your water bottle, but you will also have to get up and walk to the bathroom. The third reason is hydration is so important for all the metabolic processes in the body.

8. Have a 10 min workout

If you have the ability to have a longer workout - that's amazing! However if you're strapped for time and 10mins is all you have, sometimes that's all you need. A quick little body weight series will get the blood pumping and reenergise you for the rest of the days' work. Check out our series of short videos to help you out for inspo!

Liked these tips? Let us know which ones worked for you - add your comment below. And as always, happy moving friends! xx