"Moving the body every day (7 days a week) is a key habit for increasing healthspan."
Why It Matters
Sedentary behavior is linked to increased risk of chronic diseases and premature death, according to the World Health Organization. Daily movement, even simple activities, can counteract these effects. It is low-risk, free, and accessible.
The Science of Daily Movement
Dr. Jordan Metzl, a sports medicine physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery, states that moving the body every day is a key habit for increasing healthspan. This approach is termed non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT).
Movement can include any activity that increases effort beyond usual—such as walking, dancing, taking stairs, or cleaning. Even short bursts of vigorous activity (e.g., 2 minutes daily) can have benefits.
How to Get Started
Set reminders and keep a log of activities. Incorporate NEAT activities into your daily routine:
- Taking stairs instead of elevator
- Parking farther away
- Folding laundry standing up
- Carrying heavy packages
- Hand-washing dishes
- Standing during phone calls