Why sitting less is healthier
Research shows that sitting is unhealthy. In fact, it’s even referred to as the new smoking. So, if you have a desk job, you run health risks. But with a cleverly organised workplace you can stay active.
Sedentary lives
We Belgians spend about 55% of our time sitting. Our jobs keep us glued to our desk chairs – and we also spend too much of our free time sitting in front of the television.
Your body needs movement
Our bodies are built for movement. Sitting for long periods isn’t good for them. For example, it puts constant pressure on the lower back. Lower back pain is the most common chronic condition: two out of three people will experience it at some point in their lives, and the condition tops the list of causes of absence from work.
A laundry list of conditions
Besides lower back pain, prolonged sitting leads to an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and even premature death. Moreover, it can make employees less productive, less creative or depressed.
Did you know …
Even people who take exercise should stand up regularly. An hour of exercise is very healthy, of course, but it doesn’t make up for the hours you've spent sitting.
6 ways to reorganise workspaces
A standing table in the coffee corner allows you to drink a cup of coffee while standing.
Standing or height-adjustable desks are no longer a rarity. Even a well-known Swedish interior design store now offers an electrically adjustable desk model...
Short meetings can easily be held standing up.
Or even walking. Steve Jobs was well known for his walking meetings, and he’s not the only one.
Having a central printer means that employees have to stand up and move whenever they need to print something.
An ergonomic posture in your office chair can prevent a lot of back pain. Alternatives for shorter periods include a chair ball or an active chair.