DON'T sit still and START fidgeting, say doctors

Too many people nowadays are spending large amounts of their days spent on sedentary activities such as working at a computer or watching television, activities which could lead to serious conditions such as heart disease and the risk of strokes.

By breaking up these sedentary activities, through basic movement such as stretching your legs or standing up, even for if only briefly, can help counter the harmful effects and lead to better health overall. A number of studies have correlated the amount of time sat sitting down with a higher risk of heart disease and a shortened lifespan.

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In a bid to promote the news and get the public more health, a roadshow has been put together called the Fidget Project. Sponsored by the Wellcome Trust and the London Arts in Health Forum, the project hopes to spread the science of sedentary behaviour and show that fidgeting gives people the tools to change their lives for the better.

Speaking at the launch of the Fidget Project, NHS expert in sports and exercise medicine, Dr Wilby Williamson warned:

“People are watching television for up to four hours a day and spending 60-70 percent of their time being sedentary, and that is because of our lifestyle and occupations. Reducing our sitting time...makes us better at breaking sugars and fats down, which can help reduce our risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”

Dr Williamson continued:

“The risk factors for cardiovascular disease and longevity start to increase above two hours of television watching per day. It you can make your TV watching or screen time more active that could be beneficial. Also, make sure you aren’t sitting for long chunks of time. Some studies show there is a beneficial effect of breaking it up every 20 to 30 minutes.”

More information on the Fidget Project can be found at: www.fidgetproject.org.uk/2012-tour/what-is-fidget/