Sit Right
Health Facts
Prolonged sitting damages your spinal health
- Stress on the discs between the vertebrae
- Reduced structure and stability of the spine
- Reduced function of the spine
- Increased inflammation, leading to pain and early degeneration of the spine [L12, J10]
It’s even been shown that after sitting in a slouched position for as little as 5 minutes it can be difficult to reposition the lower spine in a correct, neutral position [L12]
Prolonged sitting alters the shape and function of your body
- Body slows down its processing of fats
- S curve in back deteriorates
- Weight pressure on back increases
- Leg and backside muscles weaken
Sitting down for prolonged periods without a break can slow the body’s processing of fats, glucose and other substances, which increases the risk of developing chronic disease – even when you meet recommended physical activity levels [A1, R18]
Prolonged sitting increases risks of disease and death
Every hour spent watching television (sitting) increases the risk of death from chronic disease by 11% [A1, C3, Q17]- A recent study in WA found that an office desk job can double your risk of bowel cancer [G7].
- The conclusion reached by a number of studies is that sitting too much can shave a few years off your life [F6, M13, P16]
