The Best Exercises To Do After Long Periods Of Sitting
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It’s travel season and that means long car rides or plane rides for many people. Sitting for long periods can be taxing on the body not just physically but mentally and emotionally. Sitting in a small seat on a plane for hours on end or riding in a long car ride can create stress on muscles, joints, and circulation. It’s important to know how to counteract this stress with regular exercise, especially after you have been sitting for an extended period. Here’s a breakdown of the issues that may arise:
Physical Stress:
- Muscle Tightness and Pain: Sitting for extended periods tightens muscles, especially in the hips, glutes, and back. This can lead to pain and discomfort.
- Joint Stiffness: Our joints need regular movement to stay lubricated. Sitting restricts this movement, causing stiffness and reduced flexibility.
- Poor Circulation: When we sit, blood flow slows down, particularly in the legs. This can lead to swelling, fatigue, and even blood clots in severe cases.
Mental and Emotional Stress:
- Confinement and Boredom: Being stuck in a small space for a long time can be mentally draining and lead to boredom and frustration.
- Lack of Control: During travel, we often have less control over our environment and routine. This lack of control can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety.
In This Episode You Will Learn:
- The effects that sitting for long periods have on your body physically, mentally, and emotionally.
- How small movements with your legs and ankles while seated can drastically help your body’s circulation muscle fatigue.
- Why it’s important to pay attention to your body if you’re driving a car for long periods and how to counteract the effects of fatigue and tiredness.
- Some upper body movements you can do that also help with better circulation and fatigue.
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Originally published June 26, 2024
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