The saying “sitting is the new smoking” has been warning office workers about the dangers of being sedentary, but a recent study suggests that some may be overdoing it in the opposite direction.
The popularity of standing desks has been on the rise, with a global market value of USD $7.75 billion, but new research advises against relying too heavily on them.
The study, conducted by the University of Sydney and published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, examined 83,013 adults in the United Kingdom to analyze the daily time spent sitting and standing. The findings indicated that standing for more than two hours a day can lead to issues like varicose veins, without significantly reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with prolonged sitting.
Patricia Doyle-Baker, from the faculty of kinesiology at the University of Calgary, mentioned that prolonged standing in a stationary position can result in musculoskeletal problems or blood pooling in the legs and feet.
However, the study does not suggest that standing desks are inherently harmful, but rather emphasizes that staying in any position for extended periods can be detrimental – whether sitting or standing.
Scott Lear, a professor of health sciences at Simon Fraser University, highlighted that it’s not just sitting that poses health risks, but rather sedentary behavior in general – the key is to keep moving.
While standing desks have their own risks, such as varicose veins and heart disease, sitting for long periods is still considered unhealthy.
Experts recommend considering height-adjustable sit-and-stand desks as a potential solution for health-conscious office workers. These desks can help alleviate pain issues for some individuals, particularly those with conditions like herniated disks in the spine.
To strike a balance, the Centre of Research Expertise for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders (CRE-MSD) suggests a 1:1 ratio of sitting and standing throughout an eight-hour workday. It’s important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing without breaks.
Incorporating movement breaks every 20 to 30 minutes is key to maintaining a healthy balance, whether at home or in the office. Small activities like taking short walks or doing household chores can help keep the body active and prevent health issues associated with prolonged sitting or standing.
Overall, finding a balance between sitting and standing, while incorporating regular movement breaks, is crucial for maintaining good health in both work and leisure time.