Do you remember a few years ago, when all the headlines blared that “Sitting is the New Smoking”? If you thought that meant trouble for you, think twice. In this blog, our San Jose bootcamp instructors share the truth about this study. Plus, you’ll get a few tips to help you stay mobile even in the most sedentary of jobs.
The Truth About the Sitting/Smoking Comparison
Basically, researchers looked into the health risks of sitting for hours at a time, and the conclusion was that if you sit a lot, your risk of dying was the same as that of a smoker – even if you exercise! Those headlines started with a grain of truth, but they weren’t 100% accurate. New studies have shown that while sitting isn’t great for you, it’s definitely not as bad as smoking, according to researchers from Canada, Australia and the U.S. who published a study in the American Journal of Public Health. Sitting more than 8 hours a day DOES increase your risk of premature death and developing some chronic diseases by 10% to 20% … but it’s nowhere in the same ballpark as smoking, which boosts the risk of early death by 180%!
Better News: Counteract Sitting Time with Activity
If you must sit a lot, there are some things you can do to offset the risk of developing diseases related to being sedentary. It all boils down to being as active as possible when you’re NOT sitting. Researchers found the risks of “excess sitting” could be mostly offset by getting about an hour of moderate to vigorous exercise every day. That means you can do the following:
- At work, go for walks or move around during your breaks.
- When you are NOT at work, get up and MOVE! Gardening, playing sports, or engaging in active hobbies are awesome options.
- Attend a class or training session at least a 3-4 days a week will help rack up your weekly total.
Things to Do At Your Desk
There are even things you can while you are at your desk. Try these tips to make it the best you can:
- Get up and walk around as frequently as possible. Set a timer so you get up to stretch at least once an hour.
- Make sure you stay hydrated! Drink water. Bonus: you might have to get up to make more trips to the bathroom. 🙂
- Double-check that your chair is set to the right height and supports you properly.
- Be mindful of your posture while you’re sitting.
- Take walking meetings, if that’s an option. If you’re discussing a project with a coworker, take the meeting outside for a quick walk. This also can encourage creativity!
Remember: your body needs and craves MOVEMENT! It will help keep you healthy, fit and feeling great!
Need More Guidance?
We’ve helped hundreds of folks improve the way they move, eat, and think so they could achieve their goals and live stronger for today. Check back here each week and LIKE our Fan Page, to stay up to date on the latest tips, strategies and methods to get fit, lose fat, and build confidence. Ready to get started with us? Click here for a complimentary goal strategy session!
Stronger for Today,
The Method3 Fitness Team