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Standing and movement breaks

movement breaks / interrupt sitting

A listing is not a recommendation.

Origin: Contemporary occupational health · Tradition: Public health (reducing sitting) · Daily habits & sleep

What it is

Standing up at regular intervals to walk or stretch a little, so as not to keep sitting for a long time. A basic step for the neck, shoulders, and low back in desk work.

A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)

1. Aim to stand once every 30 to 60 minutes.
2. Shoulder circles or a short walk are enough.
3. On a day of strong pain, reduce the number of times rather than the quality.

Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice

• Stiff shoulders
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Tiredness
• Posture

Related symptom videos

• Stiff neck & shoulders
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Posture

Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)

B: Randomised trials or systematic reviews exist, but reports are modest, the group studied is limited, or study quality is limited

Length of sitting time is associated with health risks, and WHO also advises breaking up sitting. The size of change for an individual symptom varies by study.

Sources

• WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour