Page 42 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2026

SPORTS & OUTDOORS
Think back to yesterday and add up how many hours you spent riding a chair at your desk. For most of us, the answer is probably too many.
Research links prolonged sitting to an increased risk
of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other health concerns. What’s even scarier is that even people who exercise regularly can still experience the negative effects of sitting for too long.
The good news? Small changes throughout the workday can help you move more and sit less. Here are 10 simple ways to get started.
1. Set a Reminder to Move
We’ve all had those days when we sit down to work, glance at the clock and realize three hours have disappeared. Setting a reminder to move every 30 to 60 minutes can help break that cycle. Apps like Stretchly, Workrave and Time Out will provide gentle reminders to stand, stretch or take a short walk.
The movement break doesn’t need to be long. Even a few minutes can help interrupt extended periods of sitting.
2. Have Walking Meetings
Not every conversation requires a conference room. Walking while you talk can add movement to your day without requiring extra time on your schedule. As a bonus, some people find that moving around helps them think more clearly and stay focused during longer conversations.
3. Alternate Between Sitting and Standing
Standing desks have become increasingly popular. Adjustable desks and desktop converters make it possible to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. The goal isn’t to stand for eight straight hours. It’s simply to change positions regularly and avoid remaining in one posture for too long.
4. Try a Walking Pad
Desk treadmills and walking pads have become a favorite tool for many people. Products like WalkingPad and UREVO allow people to walk at a slow pace while reading emails, attending virtual meetings or completing routine tasks.
5. Park a Little Farther Away
It sounds simple because it is. Parking a little farther from the entrance adds a few extra steps to your day without requiring any extra planning or special equipment. Over time, those steps add up.
6. Take the Stairs
Skip the elevator. Stair climbing provides a quick burst of activity and helps break up long stretches of sitting. It’s one of the easiest opportunities for movement that many workplaces already provide.
42 | August 2026
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10 Simple Ways to
story by Joey Lee