Home

About

Blog

Contact us

Pilates timetable

Contact us

07 3892 2201

475 Fairfield Road

Yeronga  Qld  4101

Previous Page

Next Page

home

blog

Sitting vs smoking - which is worse?

5 Dec 2017

Surprisingly the latest research has revealed the biggest demon to be prolonged sitting. Prolonged sitting is 8 hours straight or more per day, with regular bouts of three-hour sitting periods (such as watching the television or driving) also rated as being very detrimental. The real impacts of prolonged sitting have been highlighted in recent research reports by Steven Blair, Professor of Exercise Science and Epidemiology at the University of South Carolina, America who conducted long-term studies on the effects of inactivity. We don’t move enough and we sit for too long too often. Impacts of prolonged inactivity A person who spends long periods of sitting doubles their risk for a range of chronic health conditions. Cardiovascular disease, blood clots, obesity, diabetes and chronic back complaints are some of the more significant risks. Inactivity also contributes to migraines, poor cholesterol, increased risk of short-term memory loss and mental health issues such as depression. Internationally, it is estimated that 5 million deaths per year can be contributed to smoking, whereas 5.3 million can be contributed to inactivity. Create balance Biomechanically, those of us who sit a lot develop poor spinal and pelvic mobility. Our hip flexors and extensors are significantly shortened (leading to tight hips, butts and hamstrings) causing our spine to become stiff and prone to serious injury. While this may all sound like bad news, just simple adjustments to your life will help a lot. If you work at a desk, regular half-hourly breaks (i.e. standing and doing a few simple stretches) need to be factored in daily. Try to alternate sitting and standing to perform daily tasks and if possible, purchase a Pilates balance ball. Balance balls help to activate postural muscles and keep bodies functioning throughout the day. Integrate more walking and postural awareness exercises (such yoga or Pilates) into your daily life. Our bodies are designed to move. Be kind to yourself and keep those bones active!

© 2017 YerongaPhysio All Rights Reserved