Desk stretches for a work break
Published
Start with a comfortable movement or a short walk. Breaking up desk time with activity can help with stiffness and comfort. Mayo Clinic guidance.
Try one or two movements
- Shoulder rolls: relax your arms and gently roll your shoulders back and down.
- Supported desk stretch: with hands on a stable desk, step back and gently move your hips back as your arms reach forward.
- Standing upper-body turns: keep hips forward and arms crossed, then gently turn each way.
See Mayo Clinic's shoulder and desk demonstrations and standing instructions.
Use stable furniture, leave room to move, and stop if something hurts.
Make the next break easy
Choose a natural cue, such as finishing a meeting. Keep a familiar sequence ready rather than spending the break searching.
Capacity lets you pin routines or build a custom one. Explore Posture Reset and upper-body options, checking that each movement fits your workspace.