We all stand for something. What do you stand for?
Lawyers spend too much time sitting. We work sitting at our desks for most of the day, we sit during meetings, we sit around in court, we sit while we commute to and from the office, and then we sit in front of the TV at night. Recent research studies show that sitting for extended periods of time correlates to a greater risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and obesity, even among people who exercise regularly. Lawyers are already a stressed-out bunch, so the last thing we want to hear is that our chairs are conspiring against us.
To stand, you have to tense your muscles and engage your core. Sitting is passive and expends very little energy. Unlike standing or walking, sitting does not engage the shoulder, back and leg muscles nor does it require much balance or coordination. In fact, sitting takes barely no energy at all. You burn more calories fidgeting in the jury box waiting for the calendar call than you do just sitting still at your desk. Your secretary is burning more calories standing in your doorway waiting for you to review that document that you’re using up just staring at it.
Sitting also turns off or slows certain of the body’s metabolic processes so we become less efficient at burning fat and metabolizing sugars. It’s time to set your body in motion. We’re not suggesting that you replace your chair with an exercise ball or toss out your desk to make room for a treadmill.
The quick fix is easy, just decrease your sitting time, and spend more time standing up or moving around. Here are some small shifts that will add up quickly:
- Take the stairs when you’re going up or down three flights or less. Use the restroom on another floor, and use the stairs to get there.
- Stand when talking on the phone, especially during lengthy conference calls.
- Stand while waiting for a meeting or Court appearance to begin. You won’t be the only one pacing the courthouse halls.
- Take a walk midday or after work. It’s a great way to bond with colleagues or your family.
- Rely less on the inter-office mail and email systems. Walk down the hall to deliver your documents or your messages to your colleagues.
- Park in the rear of the lot or get off the train a few blocks away from your destination. Walk the rest of the way.
Whatever you do, don’t just sit there!
Let us know how you fit more movement into your day. Post in the comments below.
