Simple Approach to Exercising More

The link between sitting and heart disease emerged in the 1950s when bus drivers were found to be twice as likely to have heart attacks as their conductor colleagues. Everyone's job gets crazy at times but that's no reason to neglect your fitness. Whether you are at work or not, walking and talking with colleagues or friends can help you stay active. Walking up and walking down stairs can provide excellent cardio for a physical and mental boost.

A recent article in The Boston Globe concluded that sitting is the modern poor health equivalent of smoking. In a study of nurses, excessive sitting shortened telomeres, which are important cell components directly associated with faster aging. Scientist from the Columbia University Department of Medicine think that every 30 minutes of consecutive sitting should be followed by moving at a brisk pace for five minutes to reduce health risks.

You can download an inexpensive phone app that will remind you when it is time to get up and move. Even if you are a desk jockey at home or at work, you can create a routine where you get up and move. After your day is done, don't just plop down on the couch and stay there. Practice the same new habits at home. If you use a stationary bike or treadmill at work, double your daily exercise at home by watching TV while you walk or pedal.

Most importantly, an increase in activity can improve your quality of life. Researchers suggest that 6 to 10% of the world's non-communicable diseases are caused by physical inactivity. Although there are many theories, how sedentary behavior impacts our health in negative ways is a complex topic and additional studies are needed. However, a healthy behavior like being more active is an easy step to take to improve your health. To learn more about eating and living healthy, contact the Metabolic Research Center for a FREE consultation.