There is no question, we are a sitting generation. In fact, research shows that most Americans spend half their day sitting at their desk or in their cars. For many, the only parts of their body that get a workout are their fingers as they type emails, blog, facebook, tweet, text, etc. Perhaps, you could count your right foot as it moves from the gas to the brake pedal. If you’re one of the few who has a stick shift, you may actually be getting in a little more calorie burn.
I am a firm believer that communication is key, as I am sitting on my derriere writing this article, and I don't mean to preach against the tools of modern communication. But, I also try to implement at least 1.5 hours of exercise in a day, six times a week. I also get a break from sitting as I train clients and teach aerobics. Not all of us are as fortunate to have exercise built into our workday. In fact, I can remember my grandmothers telling stories about how they were 90lbs. (and barely 5 feet tall) in their early 20’s, but spent a great deal of their day walking everywhere they needed to go. My mother did not have a car growing up and she and her sisters walked everywhere. As our society has become much faster paced, we have become more idle and obese.
A new study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine actually found that sitting for long periods of time can be harmful, even if you do exercise. My suggestion is to implement some type of activity into your day at least every two hours. You can still work, but don’t hide in a crunched position in your cube all day. Stand up while you’re on the phone, touch your toes, and stretch your arms. If you’re sending out 100 emails a day, move a different body part every 20 emails. Many workplaces also have wellness programs and corporate discounts to health clubs. Partner-up with colleagues for a lunchtime workout or meet them before or after work.
If you have kids, be an example to them and start putting limits on their sitting time, spent on the internet, video games and again Tweeting, texting, etc. Face to face interaction and play is so important. I can remember being dragged in from outside when I was younger.
My advice to you, find ways to stop sitting and start living!