Most of us have heard of the benefits of intermittent fasting. We’ve also heard of the dangers of sitting too much. Well this research shows the benefits of short, periodic bouts of movement – what I am calling intermittent activity. I have talked about this in detail in Today is Still the Day. I suggest setting a timer to go off every 30 to 45 minutes and then engaging in some type of activity or movement.
While this study used 5 minute walks, you could substitute any type of movement/activity you prefer. Depending on whether you are at home or in an office setting, I recommend things like stretches, squats, jumping jacks, lunges, high knees as well as short walks.
The reason these periodic, intermittent activity breaks are so important is this: when people sit uninterrupted for 3 hours, it negatively impacts the ability of the of the lining within their leg arteries to expand and dilate as needed in response to blood flow. This symptom may be a precursor to heart disease. When people break up their 3 hours of sitting with 5-minute walking breaks once an hour, the function of the arteries in their legs is not negatively impacted.
Making these intermittent activity breaks a part of your daily routine is a simple and painless way to protect your circulation and heart health.
Do you regularly get up during the day and move intentionally throughout your day?
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Sure hope feeding, watering, herding, fence repairing, and other daily chores count. 🙂 Loved the ideas for things we can do when we’re confined to an office chair/environment. Thank you ma’am.
They certainly count in spades!!!! You definitely live a physically active life my friend.
Ann, I can thank my standard poodles for nudging me to get up and let them out or engage. My younger one comes to let me know it’s time for him to chase squirrels. He instinctively does what you’re talking about. I’ll have to make sure I add a few laps of movement myself.
Deb having a pet, especially a dog is a great way to keep you moving.
Sadly, not many people follow this easy workout routine!
Yes, Marlin, unfortunately many do not do even the most simple routne. Thanks for reading and commenting.
I’ve set a timer every day this week. Thanks for the reminder, Ann. Although I don’t always comment, I always look forward to your new posts. Thank you for your generosity.
Holly, thank you so much my friend!!!