Dubai heat keeping you indoors? Try this 3-minute desk workout for an instant energy boost
Here's how you can combat office fatigue
Most of us spend our days anchored to a desk. We feel trapped between meetings, endless emails and deadlines. So, no, a full workout is a far-fetched dream. But here's the thing: What if you could squeeze in a little strength, posture correction, and energy boost, without leaving your chair?
You don't need gym clothes, or equipment. Just you, your desk and a few minutes of focus. Read our previous story on more exercises, and why experts recommend it.
Meet the desk push and sit
This deceptively simple move blends core engagement and upper body strength. It’s discreet enough to do in an open-plan office, but powerful enough to shake off that midday slump.
Here’s how to do it:
The desk push
Sit tall and scoot your chair back slightly.
Place both palms flat on your desk, shoulder-width apart.
Push down into the desk like you're trying to lift yourself out of the chair, but don’t actually rise.
Hold for 10 seconds, then relax.
Repeat 5 times.
This fires up your triceps, shoulders, and core in one controlled move.
The invisible sit up
Keep your feet flat on the floor, knees bent at 90 degrees.
Engage your core as if bracing for a crunch—pull your belly button in toward your spine.
Lean back just a few inches (don’t touch the backrest), hold for 10 seconds, and return.
Repeat 5 times.
A simple but effective way to wake up your abs and straighten out your posture.
So, why does it work? It’s efficient, it targets underused muscles, and it helps break up long periods of sitting, which is great news for both your body and brain. Even just a few minutes can improve focus, relieve tension, and give you a subtle energy boost without the coffee.
Try this now
Your to-do list can wait a few minutes. Your spine? Not so much. Give this desk workout a go, and enjoy a small win that pays off all day.
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