Sitting Less and Moving More

Sitting is killing us! As we spend countless hours seated, this has led to increased health problems. Dr Bernice Liu, Senior Physiotherapist, Department of Physiotherapy, Sengkang General Hospital, shares tips on how we can move more.

“Sitting less and moving more are the only ways to minimise the risk of developing serious and chronic illnesses. After all, any activity is better than no activity”, says Dr Bernice Liu, Senior Physiotherapist, Department of Physiotherapy, Sengkang General Hospital (SKH), a member of the SingHealth group.

TIPS TO MOVE MORE AT WORK, IN SCHOOL AND AT HOME 

1. Remind yourself to move
   Set alerts on mobile phones, smart watches or activity trackers to remind yourself to move every other hour.

2. Drink more to move more
   Keeping hydrated and answering nature’s call can serve as a good minibreak away from work, not to mention the health benefits of water.

3. Park / alight a little farther
   A short jaunt can go a long way to keep the heart pumping.

  In school

 

1. Get an exercise buddy
   A good buddy is one who is always up for a good ballgame together!
2. Play during recess or after school
   Get active during recess or after school. Borrow a football or skipping rope and make use of your school field or gym.
3. S-T-R-E-T-C-H
   Stand up and stretch or move between lessons. Movement keeps your brain active so you’ll be less sleepy in class.

At home

1. Give the lift a miss
   Take the stairs, instead of the lift, to get your blood pumping.
2. Clean home, fit body
   Clean your home regularly! Housework involves plenty of walking, lifting and stretching, all of which is good for your body.
3. Explore your neighbourhood
   Go for walks and explore your estate.

“However, doing these simple activities alone cannot erase the negative effects of prolonged sitting. You need to also include enough regular exercise in your life to get the most health benefits,” Dr Liu adds.

 

7-DAY EASY EXERCISE ROUTINE

If you do not have an exercise routine, here’s a simple way to exercise daily!

 

* Do more or less, depending on your fitness and endurance.