Deskercise: Simple things you can do to stay fit while you sit

Every day you do the same thing: Sit at a desk, sit in the car, sit in front of the TV.

Getting out of that cycle entirely is almost impossible, but you can alter patterns by taking exercise breaks.

With that in mind, we present a monthly series, everyday exercise, aiming to help you dodge the type of repetitive stress disorders that local physical therapists say are becoming commonplace in their offices.

To begin, let’s take a look at your desk, a potential problem area.

Your body tends to take the path of least resistance. After a couple hours in a chair, it relaxes. It slumps. That can put stress on your back, arms and wrists, leading to things such as carpal tunnel syndrome. To avoid problems, arrange your desk so your body is positioned correctly. This diagram shows you how.

Oh, and don’t forget your mother’s advice: Sit up straight.

Other tips

• Walk at lunch for 30 minutes.
• Take the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator.
• Park in the back of a lot at work and stores, so you have to walk farther.

Sources

Maggie Strazzo, Summit Rehabilitation Mill Creek, 425-316-5090, www.summitrehab.com

Marty Stanton, NorthSound Physical Therapy, Smokey Point, 360-651-8880, www.northsoundpt.com