A new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine has concluded that a sedentary lifestyle will have negative consequences on your health regardless of whether or not you exercise. In other words, working out after work won’t counteract the damage you’ve done sitting down at your desk all day.
Dr. Ephraim Brenman, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with The San Antonio Orthopaedic Group, was called on for comment by WOAI Radio. Read the full interview.
The risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle (sitting for 8-12 hours or more per day) are numerous, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer.Though one work out period per day won’t help to offset these risks, breaking up periods of inactivity throughout the day will.
According to Dr. Brenman, the key is to remain as active as possible, even in small increments, throughout the day. “Every thirty minutes, try to get up and walk around for one or two or three minutes.” This applies at home and at the office.
You can also start using tools, including stand-up desks, under desk bikes, or activity trackers to help you remain more active during the day.
Dr. Ephraim Brenman is a board certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician with The San Antonio Orthopaedic Group. He treats patients aged 12 years and up for for neck and back pain, with or without referred symptoms to the limbs. To request an appointment with Dr. Brenman, please call 210.281.9595 or submit a request online.
