Desk Detox: Simple 'Deskercises' to Combat Sitting Disease at Work

Lisette Marie

17. The Email Elevator (Seated Leg Extensions)

Businesswomen's legs under conference table. Photo Credit: Envato @ImageSourceCur

Tone your thighs and boost circulation with this simple move. While seated, straighten your right leg until it's parallel to the floor. Hold for 5–10 seconds, engaging your quads. Slowly lower. Repeat 10–12 times, then switch legs. For added challenge, flex your foot or add a gentle ankle weight. This move strengthens leg muscles, improves knee mobility, and subtly raises your heart rate—making it perfect during long reading sessions or while clearing your inbox. Bonus: It’s completely invisible under your desk.

18. The Wrist Whisperer (Finger & Palm Stretch)

A woman is stretching her arms and legs while sitting at a desk with a laptop. Photo Credit: Envato @katchanatsarin

Typing all day tightens not just your wrists, but also your fingers and palms. Give them relief with this stretch. Extend one arm, palm up. Use the opposite hand to gently pull each finger back one by one, holding for a few seconds. Then stretch all fingers at once by pressing your palm open. Flip your hand palm-down and repeat. Do both sides. This improves flexibility, reduces cramping, and helps prevent repetitive strain injuries—ideal for writers, designers, and anyone chained to a keyboard. It’s quick, effective, and feels amazing.

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17. The Email Elevator (Seated Leg Extensions)

18. The Wrist Whisperer (Finger & Palm Stretch)

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