Canceling out the harmful effects of sitting can be done without even breaking a sweat.
When I realized how dangerous too much sitting can be, I got to searching, and this is what I found.
Here are nine ways you can counteract the affects of sitting.
Let's review their suggestions!
1. Just stand up at regular intervals.
Need a reminder? There's an app for that (iOS or Android)!
2. Use a standing desk.
They can be expensive, but they don't have to be. There are models out there that just sit on top of a standard-height desk that cost less than $50. (Try to expense it, OK?)
3. Drink more water (so you have to pee).
My favorite method! Just keep a water bottle next to your desk. Not a fan of plain water? Who said it has to be plain?!
4. Go talk to someone instead of email, IM, or text.
Unless your email is terrible. Then maybe just re-evaluate in general.
5. Get up instead of rolling to the thing you need on the other side of the room.
You are better than this.
6. Try a stability ball.
Ehh ... the science says this one is not so great. It doesn't really activate your muscles or improve your posture, and it will probably make you uncomfortable. But if it you've tried it and it works for you, go ahead and get your ball chair on!
7. Park at the back of the parking lot.
This won't break up a sedentary workday. But if you don't get any regular exercise in your life, just adding that few minutes of walking can add up to hours of activity over the course of a year.
8. Stand up during phone calls.
They can't see you ... yet. So why not loosen up that head, shoulders, knees, and toes?
9. Use a pedometer.
There's a lot of hoohah about smartwatches right now that cost a milliondy dollars. Bypass all that nonsense if you just want to see how much you're moving in a day. You can get a pedometer for as little as $8 (of course, more than that gets you more bells and whistles) or download a free step-counter app.
Bonus: 10. Have walking meetings.
OK, this one is mine. Sitting or standing across from someone is a literal face-off. But sitting or standing next to some feels collaborative — like you're on the same team. Try doing a walking meeting, especially if you think the meeting could get tense because pretty much everything about walking outside reduces stress.