You’ve heard “Stand up for your rights,” but how about, “Stand up for your LIFE”?
Too much sitting has been identified as a health hazard in recent years, particularly among mature adults. It has been blamed for increasing the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and premature aging, as well as cognitive decline.
A byproduct of too much sitting is tightened hip flexors, which hinder your posture, gait and athletic performance. And even though you might be working less, you’re still at your desk and computer, rounding your back and straining your neck.
Proper exercise can relieve the muscle soreness and tension to improve your walking, comfort and mobility. Plenty of simple at-home exercises will do the trick, and we can show you how.
In one study, scientists looked at 1,500 older women to compare sedentary subjects with active peers. They found that the inactive group had cells that were eight years older than the more active women.
Regular exercise is essential. In addition, remember to rise more and walk around. Break up an hour of sitting with a couple of minutes of light activity. Just turn off the TV and the computer, stand, stretch and walk around the house, if nothing else.
The cancer society suggests we:
- Stand to fold laundry
- Exercise or stretch while watching TV
- Walk around during commercials
Stand up for your health, now more than ever.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.