Get Off Your Chair!

Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA hosted a conference on the "Science of Sedentary Behavior" also known as "inactive physiology."  No one would be surprised that sedentary behavior has a strong relationship with metabolic functions. What might be a surprise is that even people who exercise everyday are impacted, if they spend the majority of their day (primarily their workday) seated, along with the severity of the impact.

Preliminary research shows long-term sedentary behavior -- desk jobs, driving and watching TV -- can lead to obesity, diabetes and even some kinds of cancer. The average adult spends a stunning 9.3 hours — 63% of their waking hours — sitting, mostly at work.

For your health's sake -- get off your chair! In addition to regular exercise, instead of Emailing a co-worker, walk over for a quick chat. Stand up while talking on the phone (also a tip for keeping conversations shorter). Schedule frequent breaks to get up and walk around. The Stanford conference offered physio balls and kneeling desks as alternatives to chairs, and established at the beginning that attendees were welcome to stand or walk around during the meeting. Making movement socially acceptable in the workplace is key.

For companies truly committed to the health of its employees, there is the Walkstation, an office desk with treadmill, although it costs nearly $4600. If you prefer biking, the same company also has a desk with a stationary bike.

Plan more breaks and opportunities to get out of your chair -- keep moving throughout the day and improve your health.