Mini workouts are about the only thing keeping me in ok shape right now. I haven't been able to get a set workout schedule this year so whenever I get the chance I try to do some pushups, squats, lunges, planks, pull-ups, and stretches. Basic bodyweight stuff to keep myself a little more limber and retain some strength.
The great thing about these little workouts is that you can do them anywhere. I do them in the office, the hotel room, at home while playing with my daughter, on the street, wherever you can find enough space to do some pushups you can do a little workout.
One other great thing about them is that you can build momentum. When we first start working out or getting into an exercise regime everything hurts. You're sore and stiff and weak. It makes it hard to stick to a workout plan. But with mini workouts you can take baby steps to build momentum to a great workout habit.
Mini workouts also wake you up. They rouse your body from it's sleepy wimpy state, getting the blood pumping. This will help you wake up better than a cup of coffee, and get the blood pumping so you can think more clearly. Doing a few mini workouts throughout your work day can break up the monotony and help you work more efficiently.
Mini workouts can help you target your inactive muscles. Since bodyweight workouts aren't overly demanding, you can really focus on working out the kinks before moving on to a more strenuous regime. No need to rush into something before your body isn't ready. Stay mindful of how everything feels during the movements and work to heal any problems you come across.
These little bodyweight workouts have been my saving grace in recent months. I feel like working at a desk is like repeatedly punishing your body in some ways and I try to do everything I can to offset any negative effects from the lifestyle while keeping up with my other obligations. I hope some of you other desk jockeys will give them a try, they're even helpful for people with a regular exercise plan for keeping your circulation up during the day.
Give em a shot and let me know what you think!
@jakeybrown