We live in an age where most of us spend our time sitting in front of a computer screen, whether that’s for work or hobbies like computer games or online casino games. Unfortunately, sitting for most of our day does have detrimental effects on our bodies.

This sedentary lifestyle can lead to health issues like obesity, neck and shoulder pain, lower back issues, and carpal tunnel syndrome. This is why you must stretch and exercise regularly at your desk or during breaks when you play slots online or casino table games at an online casino.

In this blog, we’re going to take a look at some of the best exercises to do while gaming to ensure that you move as much as possible.

Stretching exercises

Not all desk exercises are about burning fat and building muscle. In fact, stretching is one of the best ways to help prevent some of the pain mentioned above and improve your posture. The great thing about stretching? You can do most stretches at your desk, which means you don’t have to close your screen while playing online slots.

Overhead reach

This is a great exercise to open up your shoulder muscles and stretch the muscles down the side of your abdomen. Stretch one arm up overhead and then reach to the opposite side of your body, bending a little at your waist. Hold this for 10 to 30 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Tricep stretch

Triceps are the big muscles found at the back of the upper part of your arm. They get little use at a desk and should be stretched regularly. All you need to do is raise one arm and bend it at the elbow. Then use your other hand to pull your elbow towards your head and hold for 10 to 30 seconds. Simply repeat this stretch a few times on each arm.

Forward stretch

When we spend a lot of time at our desks, our neck, shoulders, and upper back can become tense.  Put both of your arms out straight in front of you and clasp your hands together, then simply lower your head in line with your arms. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds and repeat a few times.

Hamstring stretch

We use our legs very little when we are sitting all day and this could cause hamstrings to tighten and become uncomfortable. While sitting at your desk, extend one leg forward with your heel touching the floor. Reach as far as you can towards your toes without discomfort. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds and repeat with your other leg. 

Hip and knee stretch

This exercise is great for improving mobility in your hip joints and knees. While seated at your desk, bring one knee up to your body with your hands and hug it to your chest. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds and then repeat the process with the other leg.

More intense exercises

Stretching is excellent for your posture and overall physical health, but it’s also important to include some more intense exercises in your routine. These exercises can all be done without equipment and will go a long way to help you stay fit and release those lovely endorphins. These are perfect choices to do between games, during upload times or whenever you feel like it.

Seated scissors

This is a great exercise that you don’t even need to leave your chair for; you can even do it mid-game. All you have to do is sit up straight and engage your core. From here, just extend your legs out in front of you (don’t forget to keep that core tight) and open and close your legs like a pair of scissors. Keep this going as long as you can. You’ll be feeling your core and glutes in no time at all! Repeat a few times throughout the day.

Zombies, Run

Getting out and about on your breaks is always a good idea. Exercises like running can be pretty daunting, but luckily there are some companies out there that have gamified the running experience to make it a whole lot more interesting. In Zombies, Run you’ll be in the shoes of a survivor during a zombie apocalypse. You’ll have missions to complete through your headphones and you’ll have to put in a serious dash of speed when the undead start to catch up to you.

Wall Sit

Wall sits are a lot more tiring than the name suggests! Place your back against the wall and make sure your thighs are parallel to the floor. Your knees should be over your ankles, which should be shoulder-width apart. Hold the position as long as you can. When you first get started your quads will burn something fierce, so don’t expect to be holding it for too long! But, it does get easier every time.

Squats

There’s nothing like squats for some core engagement and glute work! In fact, squats offer a full-body workout and allow you to keep your eyes on your computer screen at the same time. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and then lean back as if you were going to sit on a chair. Put your arms out in front of you for some balance. Come back to the standing position and repeat at least 10 times. Give it a rest if your knees start to feel a bit achy.

Planking

They say that there is no longer minute in the world than a planking minute. This is because planking engages almost every muscle in your body. All you have to do is put your elbows on the floor, under your shoulders and have your feet behind you about shoulder-width apart. Engage your core and lift your body off the ground, keeping your back flat as a table. Hold this position for as long as you can and then repeat a few more times.

Play online games with Borgata

At Borgata, we care about our players’ wellness and that’s why we are encouraging you to at least get some stretching in when you’re playing live dealer games, table games, online slots, and more.

Register with Borgata to play some of the best casino games while staying fit and healthy too!