Short Note
Humans Are Built To Stand
The more upright a person can stand, the higher the load bearing via the feet and hence the larger the impact of the health benefits of standing, particularly on bone mineralization.
Children as young as nine months old begin pushing themselves to a standing position when their growth is unrestricted.
From around 12 months old, this leads to cruising along furniture, then walking with hands held, and finally independent walking.
Health Benefits Of Standing
1. Regulates Blood Sugar After Meal
According to a study, blood sugar levels return to normal faster after a meal on days when people spend more time standing.
2. Improves Respiration
Whenever we breathe in, the diaphragm (the narrow muscle that divides the chest cavity from the stomach cavity) contracts, the chest cavity then expands to facilitate our lungs to draw in air.
As a result, when we stand, the diaphragm has greater capacity to expand and contract, allowing us to breathe more comfortably, deeply, and effortlessly.
3. Enhances Bone Density and Decreases Fracture Risk
Bone density is a metric of bone strength, and strong bones are more Fracture-resistant.
A mix of appropriate nutrition, loading of the bones against gravity (such as standing, walking, or running) and muscular use is required for normal bone growth and development.
As a result, children with problems that prevent them from doing so lose bone density.
From 1964 through 2006, research publications were published that examined the impact of standing on the bone density of non-ambulatory, spinal cord injured, or cerebral palsied children. Except for one research, all report improvements in bone density.
4. Improves Circulation and Blood Pressure
Nine studies published between 1964 and 2007 found improvements in participants’ heart rate, and circulation, blood pressure (a quick drop in blood pressure), as well as decreased swelling in the legs and feet when they stood.
How Long Should You Stand To Gain Benefits?
The time spent standing in research studies ranged from 12 minutes on average per day to 2 hours for five days a week, according to a systematic review.
The most usual incidence, however, is 30 – 60 minutes each day.
Can Anyone Develop A Standing Habit?
Standing is almost allowed for all persons.
- When standing, those with reduced breathing or circulation should be closely watched.
- A standing program may need to be avoided for people with orthopaedic or medical issues, such as a healing fracture, severe osteoporosis, or significant hip, knee, or ankle contractures.
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