How Can You Stretch at Your Desk? A Quick Guide to Staying Active at Work

Muscles feeling tight after a long work day at your desk? Here are some stretches that will help you loosen up.

By Jake Parks
Feb 1, 2025 3:00 PM
Stretching at desk
(Credit: CrizzyStudio/Shutterstock)

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We’ve all felt it — that midday slump when your back aches, your shoulders are tight, and your focus starts to fade. The culprit? Hours of sitting at your desk.

Although the demands of modern work often tether us to our chairs, staying active doesn’t require you to abandon your workspace. By doing just a few simple stretches at your desk, you can loosen up stiff muscles, boost your energy, and improve your focus throughout the day.

The Benefits of Stretching at Your Desk

Sitting for prolonged periods has been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, back pain, poor circulation, and it seems to even be linked to an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Regular stretching can help counteract these issues by improving blood flow, reducing muscle stiffness, and promoting better posture. Studies have also shown that stretching can enhance mood and concentration, helping to give you the extra boost needed to push through the day.

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