Lunchtime is an opportunity to run errands, eat -- and exercise. If you are unable to run to the gym, there are ways to work out while still at your desk. Stock your workspace with a soft mat, stability ball or medicine ball, comfortable workout clothes and sneakers. Strengthen your abdominal muscles by spending a few minutes or your entire lunch hour on ab workouts such as leg lifts and crunches.
Exercise Videos
Exercise TV is one of many websites that provide abdominal workout videos online. Choose from free full-length workout videos, mini-workouts that feature exercise videos and range between three and five minutes each, and workout plans, which combine four to six videos to provide a complete exercise program. The website features over 180 free online workout videos for the abs as well as a wide variety of other exercise programs, including yoga, strength training, pilates and more, most of which can be done in the office during lunch.
Online Exercises
Many health and fitness websites, such as the Mayo Clinic's, provide abdominal exercise plans and workouts online. These sites provide explicit instructions on how to perform the workout as well as tips and guidance on how to know if you are doing the workout correctly. Grab a medicine ball and perform seated trunk rotations, perform a front plank or try some squats. The American Council on Exercise suggests more than 80 abdominal exercises that can be performed during lunch, most with little to no additional exercise equipment.
Exercise Tips
Many health and fitness magazines, such as "Shape," "Fit Pregnancy" and "Muscle and Fitness," provide information about abdominal workouts as well as advice on health and nutrition. Many of the workouts shown on these websites are developed by personal trainers and other health experts and come in many formats, including video. These sites may also feature programs that enable you to customize exercise programs and routines to meet your personal fitness goals.
No Spot Reduction
It is important to note that it is not possible to lose weight exclusively in a particular body area, such as your abs. If you would like strong abs, but may have excess weight to deal with, start by incorporating a cardiovascular exercise routine into your lunch break. Go for a walk around the block or take the stairs instead of the elevator throughout your work day. Eat a lunch that is full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and drink water instead of soda or other sugary drinks. Be mindful of your snacking habits and try to keep only healthful foods, like a banana, within arm's reach. Abdominal workouts can strengthen your core, but you may not see the results of your hard work unless you are at a healthier weight.
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