The number of jobs that require men to sit in one spot for 8-12 hours is staggering.
I can only imagine the impact this will have on longevity when we look at the long-term data, but we are already starting to see the risks.
A study from the University of Milan showed that failing to stretch your legs can lead to major diseases.
Specifically, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
The researchers took 39 healthy participants and split them into two groups.
One group performed passive leg stretches 5 times a week for 12 weeks. The other group did not participate in the routine.
They then evaluated blood flow and found that arteries in the lower leg and upper arm showed improved blood flow and dilation in the group that participated in the stretch routine. [R]
To perform a passive stretch, you’ll need an external force to facilitate it. This can be another person, a resistant band, or even gravity.
But following this routine is only a start.
To undo the effects of a sedentary lifestyle, experts recommend incorporating stretching into your workday.
This means getting up and moving around every 30-60 minutes.
Better yet, go up and down the stairs a couple of times.
But what about while you’re working?
The best thing you can do is invest in a sit-to-stand desk and alternate between sitting and standing in between your breaks.
This forces you to fidget around and juggle your weight between both legs, giving them plenty of blood flow.
In fact, if you work from home, we guarantee that one of the best decisions you’ll make for your health is to open another tab and order a sit-to-stand desk right now.
If you work at an office, your best option would be to email or text your boss and request one for your workspace.
You could even mention that you foresee your sedentary work being detrimental to the point of having to take days off work.
Some even get their doctor, chiropractor, or physiotherapist to “prescribe” them a sit-to-stand desk.
Point being, if you don’t have a rugged and outdoorsy job that keeps you on your feet, you need to take extra steps to protect your heart.
Your health is always worth it.