Sitting Is the New Smoking

You may have heard the recent saying "sitting is the new smoking." Despite a catchy ring, the phrase carries significant weight when it comes to understanding the potential health risks associated with prolonged sitting.

Similar to how smoking was once normalized in the 1950s before its detrimental effects became widely recognized, the unfortunate by-product of desk-bound work, often an eight- to 10-hour period of sitting, has gained much needed attention for its potential negative impact on our well-being.

As many working adults find themselves tethered to their desks and spending prolonged hours sitting in front of screens, researchers are finding that this sedentary lifestyle can take a toll on health and well-being. From increased risk of chronic metabolic conditions to musculoskeletal discomfort and reduced mental clarity, the negative effects of sitting all day are undeniable. 

However, there's a simple yet powerful solution that can make a world of difference: finding just five minutes of movement multiple times a day, from stretch breaks to short periods of cardiovascular exercise. With your rower at home and your app with you on the move, Hydrow helps make it easy for you to work these quick breaks into your work day.

Understanding the harmful effects of prolonged sitting and how Hydrow can help

While the obvious effect of prolonged sitting is reduced energy expenditure, more attention is now being drawn to additional consequences of prolonged sitting that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Here are some of the other effects that prolonged sitting can have on your health and how Hydrow can help you work movement into your day, five minutes at a time:

1. Increased risk of chronic health conditions

Studies have shown that prolonged sitting is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Hydrow Helper: Strap in for a quick five-minute warm-up or cool-down row on your Hydrow to encourage more rapid blood flow and increased energy expenditure. At the office? Climb a few flights of stairs or go for a brisk walk.

2. Musculoskeletal problems

Sitting for long periods at a desk can lead to neck and back pain, poor posture, and stiffness. Our bodies are not designed to remain in a static position for hours on end, leading to discomfort and decreased mobility.

Hydrow Helper: Take a breezy Bahamian movement break with the five-minute “Desk Mobility” workout to get movement flowing through your joints. At the office? Grab an office buddy or two for added company!

3. Negative impact on mental health

Sedentary behavior is linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, according to studies. Lack of physical activity affects our mood regulation and overall mental well-being.

Hydrow Helper: Get blood flowing to your body and brain and promote relaxation with a five-minute breath-focused or stress-relieving restore yoga session.

Finding just five minutes multiple times a day for movement breaks can have a profound impact on your health, well-being, and even productivity. With Hydrow's varied, convenient, and effective five-minute workouts, combating the harmful effects of sitting all day has never been easier. Take charge of your health and vitality by incorporating these short bursts of movement into your daily routine, and experience the transformative benefits for yourself.