The evidence is mounting as multiple studies reveal that sitting too long contributes to major health risks, some life-threatening. Scientists are confirming what has been anecdotally known for years among office workers: that ‘water coolers’ breaks are good for you. In fact, research shows that prolonged sitting at conventional desks can cut as much as 2 years off an average lifespan. Besides trips to the water cooler, however, other strategies are becoming increasingly popular not the least of which is the MultiTable Stand Up Desk. Remote workers are even including them in their furniture for home offices.
Never stay seated for more than 3 hours
Louisiana University researchers have found that adults seated for no more than 3 hours per day typically live 2 years longer. With frequent breaks each hour, the benefits are even greater. Plus, when incorporating an ergonomic adjustable desk in the workspace, some employees even choose to stand most if not all day long, thereby increasing health benefits even more.
For decades it has been proven that a sedentary work/lifestyle is linked to obesity further eroding physical fitness. Besides obesity, lack of mobility due to prolonged sitting leads to heart problems, diabetes and a number of cancers such as colon and breast cancer, among others.
Bad news, good news
While this research is not good news for individuals who spend 7 plus hours a day at their desk, the health risks can be easily remedied through increased movement throughout the day, as well as changing desk styles. Besides getting up and moving about for at least 5 minutes each hour, using an ergonomic adjustable desk and either standing most/all of the day or adjusting for a sit/stand option throughout the day can improve your health. Scientists also suggest making alternative but simple choices like taking the stairs as opposed to the elevator (even going down), walking to work and going out for lunch instead of sitting and eating at your desk will help.
