A recent Australian study reveals that standing for long periods during work hours may not be a healthy alternative to sitting. According to the study conducted at the University of Sydney and published in the Journal of Epidemiology, standing without physical activity or exercises does not benefit health and increases the risk of developing cardiovascular issues.
About 83,000 British adults participated in the study, where they were requested to wear electronic devices to record their movements and assess data on heart rates and vascular functions. After seven or eight years, the results indicated that prolonged standing could increase the risk of developing blood clots and deep vein thrombosis.
One of the researchers who participated in the study pointed out that the best recommendation for those who sit for long periods is to engage in regular movements throughout the day and practice physical exercises. The researchers recommended practical measures such as getting breaks during the day for movement and performing physical activities like walking or climbing and descending stairs to maintain health and reduce the risks of heart disease and diabetes.