If you have a desk job, you may find yourself snacking frequently as a way to combat boredom. Mindless eating can help you pack on the pounds in the belly area. Additionally, sitting for prolonged periods of time will not help you burn calories during the day. You should stand as often as possible to increase the amount of calories burned during your work day.
Vertical Workstation
A vertical workstation or treadmill desk was designed to help you combine working with exercise. The top half of the workstation holds your computer while the lower half is a treadmill with a walking belt. Instead of sitting, you can spend several hours a day walking as you type emails, browse the Internet and answer calls.
Use the Office as Your Gym
According to "Fitness" magazine, performing different activities in your office over the course of the day can burn as many as 600 calories. For instance, 15 minutes of walking up the stairs can burn an average of 128 calories. Standing while on the phone can burn 58 calories in 30 minutes and 15 minutes of cleaning out your desk drawers can help you lose 40 calories.
Smart Snacking
Avoid keeping candy and other sweet treats on your desk. Instead, if you feel the need to snack, have a healthier option available, such as a piece of fruit, whole grain crackers or cut-up veggies. Also, you can get up from your desk and take a walk when you feel the urge to snack. Pack your own lunch as well to avoid eating unhealthy takeout options.
Sit Smart
You can trade your chair for an exercise ball as a way to work the core and improve balance while sitting. Place dumbbells and resistance bands in your desk drawers. You can use the equipment to do exercises such as bicep curls, tricep extensions and shoulder raises during your downtime.
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