Prolonged Sitting Is Not Good for You
We know prolonged sitting is a major factor contributing to ill health. Employers often encourage their employees to use proper ergonomic techniques while they work. However, a bigger motivation behind this is that it helps increase productivity.
Prolonged sitting increases the risk of heart disease, as it can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and obesity. In addition, it causes an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as it can lead to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
There is an increased risk of obesity if you sit for prolonged intervals. It is because prolonged sitting burns fewer calories than standing or moving. In addition, prolonged sitting can lead to muscle stiffness and discomfort. It can also lead to an increased risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal problems. And also lead to feelings of restlessness, boredom, and decreased mental well-being.
Stand Instead of Prolonged Sitting
Therefore, using standing desks at work and home is becoming more prevalent. In addition, standing desks may provide some health benefits. Examples are improved circulation, increased muscle tone, and burned calories. As a result, more offices are offering standing desks to promote employee wellness and productivity.
Standing desks, also known as sit-stand desks, can be adjusted to allow the user to sit or stand while working. Standing desks have become increasingly popular in recent years. They offer the opportunity to change positions throughout the day and potentially have health benefits.
Standing Has More Benefits Than Prolonged Sitting
Standing desks can help reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain and neck strain, resulting from prolonged sitting. In addition, many people prefer standing desks.
Standing can help to improve circulation, as the muscles in the legs and feet contract and relax, which can help to pump blood back to the heart. In addition, it can help to tone and strengthen the muscles in the legs, hips, and core, besides burning more calories than sitting, as the muscles in the legs and core are engaged.
Prolonged sitting could be better. Prolonged standing can also negatively impact your health. Standing for long periods can be tiring and may lead to fatigue. Prolonged standing can increase the risk of developing varicose veins. This condition is about the enlarged, twisted veins visible under the skin. Standing for long periods can put additional strain on the back muscles. It can lead to back pain. Therefore, you must balance sitting, standing, and moving and incorporate regular physical activity into a healthy lifestyle.
Setting a timer on your phone or computer to remind you to stand up and stretch every 30 minutes to an hour is very helpful. Also, consider using a standing or treadmill desk to allow you to move more throughout the day. Take breaks to stand up and walk around, even if it is just for a few minutes. It can help to break up periods of sitting and can help to improve circulation and energy levels.
Moving Is The Best
Use a pedometer or activity tracker to track your steps and set a goal for how many steps you want to take each day. It can motivate you to move more throughout the day. In addition, engage in regular physical activity. For example, walking, running, or strength training are good to help improve your overall fitness level and reduce the risk of health problems.