By Katie Lewin
You know the feeling. You’ve been staring at your laptop screen for hours, dazed and disoriented, eyes as glazed as a donut. Next time you’re fighting Facebook fatigue and need to take a break, why not pump some invisible iron? Don’t worry, it’s not nearly as strenuous as it sounds — you won’t even need to get up from your chair!
This workout from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US doesn’t involve any free weights, but still strengthens your upper body and your grip, and increases the flexibility of your arms, back and shoulders in just a few easy steps:*
An added bonus of strength-training? Increased focus. A 2012 study found that strength and resistance training programs led to improved cognitive function. Which is perfect for those long, grueling hours pinning recipes for pizza and cupcakes on Pinterest. You got this, champ.
*Before you do any new exercise routine, check with your doctor to learn which activities are safe for you. When you have diabetes, you may have to take a few extra precautions to work out safely. Try to check your blood sugar before, during and after exercise to make sure it's within target range. While exercising for 30 minutes five times a week is usually recommended, you may have to start more slowly, especially if you're new to working out.
Published on April 29, 2016.
Katie Lewin is a Bay Area-based health and lifestyle writer.
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