Breaking the Chains of Sitting: A Health Breakthrough through Standing and Moving

Too much sitting has been linked to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. Dori Rosenberg, PhD, MPH, a senior investigator at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, believes that standing and moving more throughout the day is essential for improving health, regardless of age or ability.

Rosenberg’s research team conducted a clinical trial involving older adults and found that reducing daily sitting time by about 30 minutes resulted in better blood pressure measurements. This could lower health risks. To help people decrease their sitting time, Rosenberg offers tips such as standing during activities that are typically done sitting, setting up a standing desk, and incorporating standing into daily habits like talking on the phone or watching TV.

In addition to these tips, changing TV habits by standing or doing household chores while watching TV can also help decrease sitting time. Incorporating small bits of standing and walking throughout the day can also contribute to reducing overall sitting time and improving health. Simple changes such as taking short walks after meals or parking farther away when running errands can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.