The 5 Best Desk Exercise Equipment and Accessories

Inactivity can take a toll. While there are many contributing factors, a lack of exercise is a major cause.

But that doesn’t have to be the case, there are several ways you can give your lifestyle a kick – even at your desk!

1. Standing Desk

Did you know you burn 50 extra calories per hour standing versus sitting? Some studies suggest standing more often can lower your risk of disease. Standing also helps with posture and reducing back pain. For example, staring down at a computer screen can cause neck and shoulder pain. A standing desk brings the screen level with your eyes, removing the need to look down.

The best options allow you to adjust height. This means you can find the perfect fit for your size while still retaining the option to sit when needed.

2. Stretch Bands

Sometimes you just need to stay loose at work. Hunching over a desk and typing away can cause soreness and stiffness.

A stretch band offers versatility that some office exercise equipment doesn’t. Not to mention, it's the cheapest option. You can use it for resistance training throughout the day, or even a quick stretch to ease the tension in pain-prone muscles.

3. Small Free Weights

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Weights may be traditional, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a place in your office workout toolkit.

There’s no need to store massive dumbbells under your desk. But getting yourself a few lightweight free weights as desk equipment is a great idea. They take up minimal space, and you can use them for a few simple exercises to keep yourself loose throughout the day.

4. Stability Cushion

Sometimes referred to as a balancing disk, a stability cushion is a low-cost, unassuming exercise tool great for office use. Just inflate it and put in on your chair. Even sitting on it can decrease back pain, strengthen your core, and improve posture.

There are also several simple exercises you can do with your cushion while on your lunch break or when you have a few minutes of downtime.

5. Treadmill Desk & Under-Desk Bike

Perhaps this option is better suited for a home office, as the potential for heavy perspiration is much higher.

While there are many varieties, the treadmill desk is exactly as it sounds. Most units have an attached desk to support your work materials and the belt can be adjusted to a particular speed.

For those a little less ambitious, or perhaps limited by space, an under-desk bike for just under $30 might be the right alternative. Sitting comfortably under your desk, this mini-cycle allows you to peddle throughout the day while maintaining office exercise anonymity.

Both the treadmill and the bike provide the benefit of burning calories at your workstation with the mood-enhancement of motion and activity.

So no more excuses. Try these desk exercise accessories to help you stay in shape.