Desk Exercises to Keep Warm

Before you layer on sweaters and gloves or plug in a space heater near your desk, combat the frigid office air by incorporating some physical activity into your work routine. Although you might be tempted to blame your coworker for setting the thermostat to Arctic levels, some blame rests on the fact that you're mostly sedentary when sitting at your workstation. Get your blood circulating with easy exercises at your desk, and you'll feel warmer in no time.

  1. Lower Body

    • If you don’t want anyone to know you’re getting your heart rate up, focus on lower-body movements that are hidden under your desk. Start with a faux jog -- sit up straight and place your feet on the ground with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Alternate lifting your legs up as if you’re jogging under your desk. Your abs get involved in this, too, so engage your core for support. You can bike, too -- lift both feet off the floor and move them in circles like you’re pedaling. For a bigger challenge, lift your knees higher.

    Upper Body

    • There’s no shame in staying warm. If you don’t care about strange looks from your coworkers or if you work in a one-person office, get your upper body moving. Start by pumping your arms in the air five to 10 times; this stretches your arms and upper back while helping warm you up. Next, punch the air in front of you 20 times with each arm. This is particularly helpful if you have had a stressful morning with a cantankerous boss. Finally, get your chair involved -- place both hands on the arms of the chair and lift yourself off the chair. Lower yourself, attempting to stop short of the seat and hold for a few seconds. Caution: Don’t try this with a rolling chair, which can slip out from under you unless you keep your feet firmly planted on the floor.

    Around the Office

    • If you’re feeling shy about making sudden movements in a quiet office, get up and use the space around you instead of feeling stuck at your desk. Step into the conference room or bathroom stall for 20 jumping jacks or squats. Alternatively, you can just take a brisk stroll around your office to get the blood flowing -- it’s good for your body and your brain to have a mental break. You can also head to the stairwell and jog up and down until you’re feeling toasty.

    Tips

    • If the temperature is low, you’re likely not the only one who’s chilly. Rather than go it alone, take the initiative to suggest a three-minute movement break two to three times a day in your office or department. Set a timer to go off when it’s time to move, and whoever can take a break from their work for a couple of minutes can join you in desk exercises. If you decide to go it alone, add some upbeat music to your exercise to keep you perky. Just plug in headphones to your MP3 player, phone or computer and let the beat guide your movements.