Standing for longer periods does not help compensate for the health risks of prolonged sitting: “Higher risk of circulatory problems” | Radio 1

“Standing longer does not compensate for the dangers of sitting for long periods of time”

Sitting longer and standing longer therefore poses health risks, according to this study. Standing longer means an increased risk of circulation problems for every extra half hour you stand upright over 2 hours. There is no higher risk for heart disease, but sitting longer does not mean that the risk decreases. Sitting for longer periods of time increases the risk of heart disease and circulatory disorders.

“Standing up longer is no way to compensate for the health risks of sitting for long periods of time,” concluded Professor Ahmadi. “It does not improve cardiovascular health and may increase the risk of circulatory problems.”

“For those who regularly sit for long periods, lots of exercise at intervals throughout the day and planned physical activity may be a better way to reduce the risk of heart disease,” said Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis, who collaborated on the study.

“Take regular breaks, walk around, hold meetings while walking, take the stairs, stop regularly if you have to drive long distances, don’t eat your lunch at your desk and get some exercise,” Stamatakis lists some tips.

Moderate and intense exercise

Ahmadi and Stamatikas published a study earlier this year showing that about 6 minutes of vigorous exercise per day or 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per day can reduce the risk of heart disease, even in people who sit more than 11 hours a day.

In its exercise triangle, the Flemish Institute for Healthy Living advises adults between 18 and 64 years to stop sitting every 30 minutes and stand up straight for a minute. In addition, it is recommended to exercise at least 150 to 300 minutes per week at moderate intensity, or at least 75 to 150 minutes at high intensity per week. At least 150 minutes of moderate and high intensity exercise per week is also possible. Tips on how to do this can be found on the website of the Flemish Institute for Healthy Living.