Resting on your laurels - aka your butt - can kill you, experts say. Sitting for long periods of time, even if you exercise regularly, can harm your health. Whether it's at the office, in the car, in front of the TV, on the phone, reading or at school, the more hours you spend reclining increase the likelihood of being obese or even having a heart attack. Researchers have already figured out that we need to move more - preferably 30-60 minutes daily - but new studies have revealed the dangers of sitting, even for those who meet daily fitness requirements. Taking breaks and getting up while sitting at your desk or in front of the TV can help offset the effects of being on your butt long-term. Instead of e-mailing or IMing a coworker, why not get up and go speak to him or her?
Shopping online is convenient and quick, but you'll burn lots more calories by going to the mall and walking briskly to go make those purchases. Trade in that old game console for a Wii - you'll burn substantially more calories when your Mii is in action. Calling for takeout? Not only will you probably end up eating more calories, but you'll also burn fewer calories than it would take to make a home-cooked meal. Make calls on your cordless or cell phone so that you can walk around while chatting. Get moving as much as you can to decrease the risk of sitting around, waiting for a heart attack.
