A 2024 study published in BMJ Open says that reducing sedentary behavior by just an hour a day could help with back pain. In short, you only need to sit for 40 minutes less. Sounds doable, right? But what happens to the rest of the body if you do so? Let’s find out below:
Tushar Bisht, wellness expert at Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness, says that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as prolonged sitting slows down blood circulation, leading to higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels. “The lack of movement weakens muscles and joints, which may reduce bone density. Sitting for long periods, especially with poor posture, causes tightness in the hip flexors and leads to back pain,” he explains.
He adds that physical activity helps release endorphins in the body, which improves mental well-being, further stressing that lack of physical activity is linked to “higher rates of mental health concerns. An inactive lifestyle can also result in obesity in the long run, as a lack of movement can lead to less calorie expenditure.”
This is why you should sit less and move more (Source: Freepik)
What happens to the body if you sit for 40 minutes less?
Bisht notes that reducing sitting time by only 40 minutes improves blood circulation all over the body and reduces blood pressure levels and the risk of cardiovascular issues. “Being active can help improve weight management and lessen the chances of developing metabolic diseases like diabetes,” he told indianexpress.com, adding that an improvement in mood and focus and, of course, a reduction in back pain can also be noticed.
What can you do in those 40 minutes?
“Active breaks are very effective as they help the body get out of its comfort zone and refresh the mind. Walking without any distractions for 5-7 minutes helps to bring the person back to focus, and studies have shown that it boosts productivity,” said Bisht.
He also suggested partaking in indoor games requiring movement, such as table tennis. Including them within office premises and playing as little as a 5-minute match can boost teamwork and the spirit of individuals, which can make work fun and boost productivity, he added.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.