Sitting or Standing?

Author: Michelle Mamerto

Many of us spend hours commuting, working in front of a screen, or at a desk. Being sedentary for too long puts us at greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Because of this risk, many of us started to use standing desks. However, standing for long periods is not as healthy as we thought it might be. Standing and sitting have the same root problem- a lack of movement.

Prolonged standing does not improve heart health, and it might even raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Any time we are sedentary for hours, there is risk of circulatory issues. Prolonged standing without movement can also lead to lower back pain, increased joint pressure, and discomfort of the legs, and varicose veins. So what are we supposed to do to maintain optimal health as we spend hours at work?

Here are a few tips:

• Get moving! The key to being healthier at work is movement. You don’t want to spend too long sitting OR standing.

• Mix it up! We should be moving, and not stuck in one position for hours. Combine standing, sitting, light movement, and walking.

• When you are standing, shift your weight, balance and engage different muscle groups.

• Find a balance where you are able to do all three- sitting, standing, and moving, not more of one than the other. This balance will boost your energy and focus.

Our bodies were designed to move. Movement helps us maintain our muscles, bones, joints, circulation, and helps us to get a better night’s sleep. Should we get rid of our standing desks now? You would benefit from a desk that can adjust from sitting to standing- as long as you add movement to your work day.