The research conducted by Dori Rosenberg, PhD, MPH, a senior investigator at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, has shown that too much sitting can lead to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and dementia. To improve overall health and well-being, Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of standing and moving more throughout the day, regardless of age or ability.
Rosenberg’s research team found that reducing daily sitting time by about 30 minutes resulted in better blood pressure measurements among older adults in a clinical trial. To help people decrease their sitting time, Rosenberg offers tips such as standing during activities that are typically done sitting, setting up a standing desk, and incorporating standing into daily habits like talking on the phone or watching TV.
One way to reduce sitting time is by changing TV habits. This could involve standing or stretching while watching TV or doing household chores while watching TV. Another way to reduce sitting time is by incorporating small bits of standing and walking throughout the day, such as taking short walks after meals or parking farther away when running errands. These simple changes can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.