Stay Healthy by Standing

According to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity is the fourth-leading risk factor of death for individuals around the world. Many of us spend eight hours a day setting at a desk working, only to sit in our cars to drive home and site at the dinner table and in front of the TV. You’re probably sitting while reading this article right now!

Regardless of how much exercise you get, long periods of time spend sitting can still have negative effects on your health. As we age, many of us find ourselves sitting more often, whether as a result of tiredness, illness or a laid-back retirement. There are plenty of ways to stay active and upright though. Follow these tips and work to avoid sitting for more than a few hours per day.

Go for a Walk

It doesn’t matter where you walk, as long as you are doing it! Instead of turning on the television after breakfast, go for a short walk around the block or a local park. Enjoy shopping or people watching? Walk the mall for a bit! There are plenty of benches and areas where you can stop and rest between laps. To keep yourself motivated, call up a friend and make daily walks a part of your routine together or bring Fido along with you every day.

Clean up the House

Household chores are a great opportunity to stand. Vacuuming, making the bed and doing the dishes all require you to stand, and there are plenty of other tasks that can be done standing. Instead of sitting on the couch to fold your laundry, try doing it standing up. These routine activities are a good start at getting active and out of your seat.

Find a Hobby

Another idea to get you active and out of your seat is to find a hobby or activity that requires you to do a lot of standing. Love to cook or bake? Stand at the kitchen counter while you work instead of sitting at the table. Have grandchildren? An afternoon of babysitting will provide you with ample activity!

Try a Height-Adjustable Desk

A height-adjustable desk is the perfect solution to sitting through the workday or while surfing the internet at home. Begin your work while standing and lower the desk when you need a break. The more time you spend on your feet, the more used to this change you will get. Start slow and build up the time you spend standing each day to improve your health.

For individuals who have trouble standing on their own, consider a walker or cane from BEK Medical. Even a brief walk around the house or yard will help you to maintain your health.

 

Sources: http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/21/health/sitting-will-kill-you/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leslie-spry-md-facp/sitting-health_b_1929759.html