Today, I’m going to talk to you about the negative effects of sitting for too long can have on your body. On average, people sit for 10 to 12 hours a day. Starting with your commute to and from work, to sitting at your desk and staring at your computer all day. Sitting for long periods of time can have long-lasting negative effects on your body.

Cancer & Heart Disease

Studies published in the journal of the National Cancer Institute and the American Journal of Epidemiology have shown that sitting for too long increased the risk of cancer and heart disease. Inactivity can also cause your digestion to slow down, which causes cramping, bloating, heartburn, and constipation. It can also affect your body in the way that it responds to insulin -- possibly leading to diabetes.

Bad Posture & Imbalance

Bad posture is one of the biggest culprits that come with sitting too long. Simply put, when you sit for long stretches at a time, you tend to get lazy or sleepy and start to slouch or lean to one direction, this tends to happen when staring at a computer and looking down at your phone all day. This can cause imbalance in the cervical spine which leads to having a strained neck and shoulders,causing you to push your head forward. It also puts pressure on your lumbar spine causing your lower back to compress which leads to loss of flexibility and in some causes, a herniated disc.

Back Problems

Back problems are one of the more common ailments in the U.S according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Each year, 50% of working adults report back pain, causing them to miss work (source: American Chiropractic Association).

Weakened Muscles

Other problems that arise when you sit for too long,your hips become tight and lose range of motion. It can weaken your glute muscles, your core muscles and affect your overall stability, it can even affect your stride when you walk. Loss of bone strength can also occur, over time this can lead to osteoporosis.

Just Move – Every Little Bit Helps!

All of the above can be avoided by simply moving. Whichever way you choose to do so: strength training, yoga, pilates, running, swimming, hiking, dancing ,even gardening, just get up and move.

Your body and mind will be eternally grateful.