Sitting Might Be Slowly Killing You, but Your Standing Desk Isn’t the Solution
Sitting might be slowly killing you, but your standing desk likely isn’t the solution. According to Stephen Williams, a cardiologist at NYU Langone, being sedentary is just as harmful to your health as smoking.
The Dangers of Prolonged Sitting
Prolonged sitting has been linked to a slew of health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. In fact, a study of 8,000 adults found a direct link between extended sitting and an increased risk of early death. This is because prolonged sitting can lead to a range of negative health consequences, including weight gain, depression, and even some cancers.
The Risks of Sedentary Living
Williams notes that being sedentary is now seen as the "new smoking lifestyle." It is that bad. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that less than a third of adults get the recommended 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. And worse, one in four adults sit for more than eight hours a day.
The Limitations of Standing Desks
While standing desks may help to prevent back pain, they probably won’t cancel out the negative effects of prolonged sitting. "The negative health consequences of being sedentary for more than 60-90 minutes apply to any position… including standing," says Ben Greenfield, a biohacker and fitness guru.
Getting Moving
So, what can you do to stay healthy? Williams stresses that getting your body moving is key. He recommends getting at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day, which can be as simple as a 10-15 minute walk to get your heart rate up.
Easy Ways to Get Moving
- Take a 10-15 minute walk each day
- Get your heart rate up for 10-15 minutes at a time, for a total of 30 minutes each day
- Use a fitness device, such as a smartwatch, to track your activity
- Stand up from your desk and move around every 30 minutes or so
Conclusion
Sitting is a major risk to your health, and replacing it with standing isn’t the solution. Instead, focus on getting your body moving. Remember, "sitting (sedentary behavior) is the new smoking. It is that bad."
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much physical activity do I need to do each day?
- At least 30 minutes of moderate activity, which can be as simple as a 10-15 minute walk.
- How often should I stand up from my desk and move around?
- Every 30 minutes or so to maintain good health and prevent the negative effects of prolonged sitting.
- How can I track my physical activity?
- Use a fitness device, such as a smartwatch, to track your activity and monitor your heart rate.
