The Negative effects of prolonged sitting while at work

You are probably at work while you are reading this – so why don’t you have a seat … wait you probably already are seated.

Medical experts have discovered that diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity are all linked to prolonged periods of sitting – this includes while at work. Research shows that most people spend only ONE hour of their day NOT SEATED!!!

THE SIMPLE THINGS CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH
Simple things like standing up to turn off the television, can improve your health.

Between commuting and work, we sit for nearly 15 hours everyday

The cumulative time that a person spends between watching television, working, and commuting can add up to between 14 and 16 hours a day. Most people are ONLY AWAKE for 15 HOURS.

HOW YOU SIT IS IMPORTANT
When we alter the way we sit and if we exercise at least 30 minutes a day, we can reduce the risks of developing lifestyle diseases.

STUDIES OUT OF AUSTRALIA
Queensland University’s Cancer Prevention Research Center spokesman Mr. Paul Gardiner stated that older people “lounged around” the most.

Mr. Gardiner added, “It’s not always how long you sit but also the way you sit. Studies have shown by having regular breaks it could alter blood glucose levels which are linked to diabetes,” “We are trying to get people to avoid prolonged sitting.”

We spend so much time seated while at work that we might as well be asleep!

CHILDREN AND THE SEDENTARY CONDITION
Research has determined that children are seated for up to 44 percent of day – this DOES NOT INCLUDE when they are sleeping. Amazingly, this figure increases to 56 per cent by ADULTHOOD. As it pertains to senior citizens – 65 percent of their day is spent seated.

SOME SUGGESTIONS
Mr Gardiner suggests people find ways to stand up while doing everyday activities. Some examples include standing and light pacing while on the phone. Mr. Gardiner offered the following advice, “If you are watching TV, put the remote on top and stand up to change channels,” “In the office, get up and go for a walk after you are on the telephone. Move bins and printers to a central location so workers have to stand up and walk.”

PRACTICAL ADVICE
If you are able to, try lifting reams of papers in each hand and curling them. You can also perform some safety-squats or dead-lifts with the box of printer paper (that is if you are strong enough and do not have any significant back limitations). Standing and stretching can improve your circulation. Furthermore, if you find yourself in the break-room by yourself, perform a very slow set of pushups to get the blood pumping followed by some slow, standing wall squats (Roman Chairs).

Taking the stairs could save your life!

You can increase circulation and burn off some extra calories by walking up escalators and taking longer routes to and from your car. WALK as often and as much as you can – avoid taking the elevator in favor of taking the stairs.

For more information and advice, feel free to email me at JTzor@Spartanfitness.com

Tags: bad posture, circulation, dangers of sitting, obesity