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The Hidden Dangers of Sitting
The findings from a Journal of the American Heart Association study are both surprising and unsettling — extended TV viewing increases the likelihood of premature death. While the study points out that extended viewing times may be the cause of elevated risk of death from cardiovascular diseases and other causes; it also points out that extended video gaming may have similar implications. Does that necessarily mean eliminating screen time is the answer? Is the problem the screen or the fact that you’re sitting?
Is It the Screen or the Sitting?
Most experts agree that it’s the sitting that poses the problem and not the TV itself. Although not all sedentary activity is bad — such as sleeping, which is the ultimate form of sedentary activity, but has been shown to be a risk factor for obesity — the research on sitting and the potential impact on longevity is disturbing. Research on 43 different studies indicated that people who sit for large parts of their day have a decreased life expectancy. The research further indicates that this increased risk applies regardless of one’s physical activity level.
Exercise Alone Won’t Save You
While many people think that exercising will cancel out the negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle, the data suggests that isn’t true. Mortality due to heart disease was significantly greater in those who sat for long periods of time, regardless of how often they worked out.
From an evolutionary standpoint, the human body wasn’t designed to sit for long periods of time. We were built to move. Therefore, incorporating physical activity throughout the day is important to maintain long-term health.
The Case for Standing Up
Incorporating more standing into daily routines is one simple way to start moving again. Using a standing desk for reading the newspaper, paying bills or watching TV, is one option. Another option is using a treadmill desk to walk while working or watching your favorite program. There are also options to create a DIY standing desk and movement encouraging setup with some creativity and duct tape and bungee cord.
The Bottom Line
We need to think differently about how we spend our time and make movement a priority. We need to get off the couch and stand up for our health. This is a small change that may help us live longer.