Sitting or standing

We don’t often share The HS’s articles but… there has been a growing research base on standing vs sitting at work, school and home.

A lifestyle that is sedentary or that which involves long periods of sitting may increase risk, severity or disability related to:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular disease
• Musculoskeletal disorders (Muscle, joint and bone)

and may worsen:

• fatigue
• productivity
• mental health

The recommendation? Activity and movement is the key. Short, light activity breaks during the day at least every 30 minutes or alternating positions will do wonders.

Need help monitoring your activity? Try Fitbits or even an iphone/android app

At work you don’t even have to have a fancy sit/stand desk, simply break up your day with different tasks and duties!

• Get up and speak to your colleagues instead of emailing them
• Use a cordless phone and walk while you talk
• Move your printer, bin away from your desk
• Grab a drink of water every hour at the water cooler
• Go for a walk at lunch
• .. or better yet having walking staff meetings!

Ask your physio about what you can do after hours to increase your activity or return to the exercise world.

Source: http://www.physiotherapy.asn.au/APAWCM/Advocacy/Campaigns/Australia_s_Biggest_Killer.aspx