As someone who works at a desk and doesn’t often have the spoons for a full workout after work, I worry about my health and fitness a fair bit. Not just about weight gain, but things like DVT from lack of movement, my future mobility, muscle and bone health, and plenty more I’ll spare you from. I know many of you are in the same boat, unable to muster up the motivation, health issues getting in the way or just lack of time. So here are five of the things I have tried to deal with this problem over time with varying levels of success. Links are affiliate links but all reviews are my own. 

Under desk walking pad

So this appealed to me on so many levels. Like never having to leave the house to get my step count up… Being able to type and walk at the same time.. And it fits in any tiny space. While the last part is definitely true, as it turns out you need to have a certain level of coordination in order to use a treadmill at the best of times. Walking pads generally don’t have anything to hold onto (for dear life) as you’re using them, so if coordination is not your strongest point you won’t be able to work and walk at the same time. They’re great for small apartments and good value for money but sadly not the thing for the uncoordinated (me). If you do want to give them a go though, there are many to choose from. 

Resistance bands

If you’ve ever watched YouTube videos about people’s mishaps with these, you’ve probably promised yourself never to use one. As did I until I went down a rabbit hole about how resistance exercise can support lymphatic drainage, and resistance bands being one of the easier ways to get that kind of movement in without a full workout. You can use them while watching tv or sitting at your desk, so these are a winner for me. 

Under desk bike

These can be a bit of a hit and miss as I’ve learned. Quality matters here. Badly made models (as I discovered) don’t turn smoothly, they get stuck easily in certain positions and are generally not fun to use. If you do find a good one though, they are great for working muscles and circulation in the legs without leaving the comfort of your couch or chair. Reading the reviews for the model you choose is a must before you buy. Personally I liked this under desk bike.

Weighted vests

This one is a bit different as it does need you to get up and about. The good thing is that you can wear a weighted vest while doing your normal activities like walking your dog and still gain extra benefit without going to any special effort to work out. I’m guessing quality matters here too but I personally just bought an affordable one and it was fine. 

Giant exercise ball

I will include the exercise ball here as it IS possible that using this as a chair has some sort of fitness benefit? But basically that’s the only use it gets at our house. Somewhere to sit and bounce. Highly recommend but it does take up lots of space. 

As with everything else always make sure to check with your doctor about what exercise is safe and recommended for you based on your personal medical history.