Having a regular exercise routine is important; but, how much time you spend sitting throughout the day may be just as important. A British Journal of Sports Medicine article in 2009 correlates total sitting time in a day to “an increase risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other prevalent chronic health problems- even if you exercise regularly.” Research now suggests being active throughout the day, whether you like lawn care, gardening, hunting or fishing, for example, reduces your risk for cardiovascular disease and other chronic health conditions.
Long periods of sitting leads to a lack of muscle contractions and decreased blood flow. Dr Vernikos, former NASA specialist, conducted research that supports getting up from sitting around 35 times a day to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. The author of the cited article suggests setting a timer to remind you to stand up and move every 15 minutes.
Sitting with poor posture increases stress on your discs in your low back. This is a common cause of back pain. If you have a herniated disc, you may find sitting to be intolerable. Avoid sitting for more than 15 minutes and avoid long car rides, as both will aggravate a disc injury.
To read more about prolonged sitting and your health, check out:
The Importance of Intermittent Movement For Longevity, by Dr. Mercola
Valley Sports & Spine Clinic
Giving you Back your Life
Dr. Ethan Colliver