One surprising way to fight the effects of being sedentary is something your mother probably told you not to do – fidgeting.
A University of Leeds study looked at data from almost 13,000 women aged between 37 and 78 participating in the U.K. Women’s Cohort Study, a health and diet study. They completed a baseline questionnaire and then, about 12 years later, completed a second one addressing health behaviors, chronic disease, physical activity levels and fidgeting.
Fidgeting was defined as small movements, especially of the hands and feet, often prompted by nervousness, restlessness or impatience. The researchers found that people who are moderately or very fidgety live longer than those who are “occasional fidgeters.”
Specifically, in the low fidgeting group, sitting for seven hours or more each day versus less than five was associated with a 30 per cent increased mortality risk. In the high fidgeting group, sitting for five to six hours versus less than five resulted in a significantly decreased mortality risk. The study was published online recently in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
The researchers note that there may be a link between extended sitting time and abnormal glucose metabolism.
Fidgeting, even though it’s low energy, may be enough to have a positive influence on the body.
