Can't work out? Work in!

Research in recent years clearly links physical activity with improved health outcomes. There also is evidence that inactivity can have a devastating impact on health. Medical experts at OU Medicine have practical suggestions for staying active, even when your work-life balance doesn't allow for regular trips to the gym.

• Business by phone?

Take it on your cell and go mobile. Some studies suggest that even this moderate activity keeps your brain more engaged and enhances productivity, as oxygen and blood flow through your system.

• Standing push-ups — strengthens arms/core: With both hands on desk, walk feet back to a 45 degree angle and do a dozen pushups.

• Book press — good for triceps: Grab the heaviest book available. Holding it overhead with arms fully extended, bend elbows lowering book behind your head to neck level. Slowly repeat.

• Shoulder-blade squeezes — improves posture, releases shoulder tension: Imagine holding a pencil between shoulder blades, squeezing them toward each other for a count of 10 seconds. Release and repeat.

• Chair squats — tones gluteus (butt) muscles: Standing six inches in front of chair, lower yourself down until your butt hits the edge, then, in a controlled movement, rise back to standing position.

• Wall sits — good for abs, toning quads: Stand against an empty wall space. Bend knees, lowering body to a 90 degree angle. Pressing your back to the wall, hold for 30 seconds; slide back to standing and repeat. Gradually increase sitting time to a full minute.

Do any combination of these whenever you need a short break. You can easily achieve a 30-minute daily activity goal and feel the benefits.