In the over text on the video, Reagan says, “Does using an under the Desk Treadmill even DO anything…?” The video then jumps to a screen grab of her smartwatch which claims she’s walked 31,074 steps which equates to 15.14 miles.
One user expressed what many others thought, “Well the watch calculates steps and calorie loss under the assumption that you are doing a full walking motion. The numbers aren’t accurate”, to which Reagan replied, “I am doing a full walking motion haha. It’s not a sitting pedal, it’s a treadmill” to which the user replied, “Ahhhh.”
During the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic, people had to get creative when it came to exercise, and with many of us making the shift to working more from home, it can be harder to fit in the exercise in the classic ‘after-work’ slot we give ourselves.
In an article for health insurance company BUPA, Senior Musculoskeletal and Pelvic Health Specialist Physiotherapist Lucie O’Shaughnessy suggests these other exercises you can do at your desk to help keep you limber and nimble:
Seated spinal rotation
While seated, cross your arms over your chestGrab your shouldersRotate your upper body from the waist, turning gently from left to right as far as feels comfortableYou should feel a tension on both side of your lower back as it stretches out
Posterior shoulder stretch
Hold one arm across your bodyPull your elbow into your chestYou should feel your shoulder gently stretching
Upper shoulder and neck stretch
Sit on one handTilt your head away from the hand you’re sitting onTilt your head slightly forward, towards your shoulderYou should feel the muscles in your neck and shoulder being stretchedChange sides, and repeat
Take a Break
She also recommends taking regular breaks.
For every five minutes of intense work at your computer, have a short pause Stretch your hands, wrists and fingers. Roll your shoulders and rotate your neckGive your eyes a break every 20 minutes, by looking away into the distance for 20 secondsEvery 20-30 minutes, stand up, stretch and move for 20–30 secondsKeep alert by doing gentle exercises every two hours
One user took inspiration from Reagan, “Bought a treadmill because of your videos. Was so much more productive working and walking and had 14,000 steps in before lunch. Feels amazing!” while another user also approved, “As a physical activity researcher and physio, I 1000% approve of these!! Replacing sedentary time with any PA is 😚 🤌.”
