Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington have found that simply sitting less can improve well-being. The study was published in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise (PSE).
The team, led by Professor Yue Liao of the Department of Kinesiology, followed more than 350 young people wearing activity trackers. It found that on days when participants replaced at least 30 minutes of sedentary time with light movement, such as walking, cleaning or shopping, they felt more alert and energized the next day.
"You don't have to think you have to run a marathon or exercise to the point of exhaustion to improve your health," Professor Liao explained. "Just sitting less and moving more already helps you feel better the next day."
The researchers noted that light movement, rather than vigorous exercise, was most strongly associated with improved mood. Moderate or vigorous exercise, such as running or working out, also helped, but to a lesser extent. However, prolonged sitting or lying down decreased alertness. Sleep duration, however, had no significant effect on mood.
"We assessed all the daily behaviors: sleep, activity, sitting time and light movement. A day lasts 24 hours, and if a person increases his movements by spending less time in a sedentary position, this affects his well-being," Liao noted.
The scientists also emphasized that the effect does not depend on how active a person is compared to others; changes related to their own norm were more important.
"We expected exercise to be the main factor," Professor Liao admitted. “But it turns out that light, accessible movements play a key role. You don't need to sweat. just moving a little more than usual is enough."
Translation:Euromedia24.com-in:
