In 2019, Dutch adults (aged 18 to 64) spent an average of 9.3 hours a day sitting down. We don't just sit at a desk at work; as soon as we finish work, we drive home sitting in the car, sit down at the table to eat, and sit on the sofa. But why is sitting down unhealthy?

Risks of prolonged sitting

There are various risks associated with prolonged sitting. It causes:

  • A higher risk of cardiovascular disease;
  • A higher risk of type II diabetes;
  • A higher risk of depressive symptoms;
  • And it can increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

According to the Health Council, prolonged sitting is also associated with a higher risk of premature death: sitting for more than 8 hours a day can lead to a 27% higher risk of premature death than sitting for less than 4 hours.

For people with sedentary jobs, it is therefore advisable to take regular short breaks, approximately every half hour, to stand or walk around. These so-called microbreaks appear to have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular risk factors. Limit working entirely in a standing position to 1 hour at a time or 4 hours in total per day to prevent complaints caused by standing for too long.

Workplace design and organization

Regularly alternating between sitting and standing or walking can be encouraged by the workplace and working environment, for example with sit-stand desks or a dynamic workstation. If implemented correctly, these measures can lead to less sitting in the short term. Organizational measures include, for example, managers playing an active role and organizing walking meetings.

Tips for varying your sitting position

In addition, there are many opportunities that employees can take advantage of themselves to sit

during work and during breaks. Examples include:

  • Standing while talking on the phone;
  • Walking over to a colleague instead of sending an email;
  • Walking meetings.

Prerequisites for successful interventions include good information and instructions, reminders, and a corporate culture in which working on health is accepted.

More information

Would you like to know more about how you can get your employees moving and how you can create a vital organization? Pleasecontact usor take a look at the services we offer on our website.