In my natural state, I have no upper body strength. I routinely failed to do even one pull-up in gym class, and my best friend from junior high still remembers that I couldn’t open her family’s fridge. As an adult, I recognized that my sad little T-rex arms could cause problems down the road. I’ve taken a number of steps to fix this, but only one is so easy and convenient that I’m doing it right now. Friends, behold the hand weight.
This is less of a product recommendation than a conceptual one. I bought my hand weights at Modell’s Sporting Goods, but it doesn’t really matter where you get them. What matters is where you put them: on your desk. Get yourself some that are the right weight for your fitness level (I use 1 lb, but as I mentioned, I’m a T. rex), and stash those suckers right by your computer. Then, in moments of idleness at work — or, hell, moments of busy-ness — do a few curls. I also like the overhead press. A trainer could certainly give you better tips than I can, and obviously a few weights on your desk aren’t a substitute for a full workout, but if you’re looking for a way to work a little more exercise into your day, they’re are good option. Also, doing a few lifts can be a good way to relieve workday stress.
One caveat: I keep my weights on my desk at home, so I can use them when I work from there. I don’t keep a set in the office, mostly because I’m worried I’d look like a weirdo using them in front of people. But back when I worked in an office with a closable door, I used my weights there all the time (actually, I used cans of Pepsi, which is an even lower-budget option). And folks more devil-may-care than I may be perfectly willing to lift weights within view of coworkers. Your display of strength will surely intimidate them.
Valeo HW2 2-Pound Neoprene Hand Weights, $11.71 at Amazon.
Worth It only features things we paid for ourselves and actually like. Don’t send us stuff.
