Mental Health

Ways to Ditch Sedentary Lifestyle

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Apr 25, 2024 08:27 AM EDT

Since the recent rise in trends of working from home, moving away from the sedentary lifestyle seems to be a tough row to hoe.

Breaking Free From Sedentary Lifestyle

Living a sedentary lifestyle can lead to various health issues, yet many people find themselves stuck in the rut of inactivity. But fear not, there are simple steps to take for a person to break free from sedentary habits and lead a more active life. Here are some strategies that will help ditch the sedentary lifestyle for good:

Recognizing the Signs

Being aware of the signs of a sedentary lifestyle is the first step to making a change. Symptoms such as feeling fatigued all the time, noticing changes in weight and metabolism and experiencing shortness of breath after light movement can indicate that you're not moving enough.

Weekly Aerobic Activity

The World Health Organization recommends a minimum of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, along with strength training. If you are not meeting these guidelines, it's time to incorporate more movement into your routine.

Short Walks and Standing Breaks

Spending more than half of your waking hours sitting can have detrimental effects on your health. To combat this, aim to reduce prolonged sedentary behavior to no more than 60 minutes at a time. Incorporate frequent movement throughout the day, such as taking short walks, standing up every hour, or opting for active breaks during work.

Exercise for Energy Boost

Sitting too much can lead to extreme tiredness due to body deconditioning. But research shows even light exercise, like a walk, can boost energy by 20%. Low-intensity activities are effective; no need to overdo it. Take a stroll around the neighborhood, and bring the kids or dog for added enjoyment.

Exercise for Weight Watch

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and metabolic changes. To prevent this, people should focus on burning as many calories as they consume by incorporating regular physical activity into their daily routines.

Exercise for Sleep Quality

Excessive sedentary behavior can negatively impact sleep quality and quantity. Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve both the quality and duration of sleep, leading to better overall health.

Exercise for Mental Well-being

Exercise is not just beneficial for the body; it is also essential for mental health as research shows that regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and improve a person's overall well-being.

Exercise for Brain Health

Finally, people should not overlook the importance of exercise for brain health. Aerobic exercise, in particular, has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function, helping to keep the brain sharp as people age.

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