
3 Exercises to Combat Sitting
September 11, 2025Have you stepped out of the car after a long trip, either because of distance or traffic or mix of both? What is the first thing we typically do after we get out of the car? Walk, stretch, move, right? But why do we move? To get out of the position we were just stuck in.
Sitting is something we all do, whether it be while driving, at work, or at home during the time we get to relax, unwind, eat, etc. It is part of our daily lives and there is no escaping it. Sitting is not inherently evil but how we sit and for how long are more prominent factors in what we feel during and after extended periods of sitting.
What Happens When We Sit?
Its important to remember that the act of moving in itself is enough to counteract the effect that sitting has on our bodies.
Below are 3 easy exercises to combat sitting, regardless if it is related to work, school, commuting, etc.
Standing Hip Flexor Stretch
How to do it:
- Start in a standing position with one leg forward and one leg behind
- Whichever leg is forward, bend that knee slightly and keep the back leg straight throughout
- Slowly shift weight forward onto lead leg
- Maintain an upright torso throughout
- Hold position for 30 seconds then switch sides
- Repeat two times
Standing Heel Raises
How to do it:
- Start in a standing position with feet spread hip’s width apart
- Keep knees straight and press the balls of your feet into the ground lifting your heels off the ground
- Hold position for 3 - 5 seconds and return to starting position
- Repeat 10 times, completing 2 sets
- Use counter or chair for support if needed
Standing Sky Reach
How to do it:
- Start in a standing position with both feet about your hip’s width apart
- Lift arms up overhead and reach up towards the sky
- Make sure to avoid shrugging shoulders during reach
- Hold overhead position, after 15-20 seconds, slightly lean towards the side
- Repeat by reaching towards opposite direction as first lean
- Repeat for another 15-20 seconds for 2 - 3 rounds to each side
- Remember to only go as far as comfortable and able
Try out these exercises to stretch out and loosen up some of your body after prolonged sitting. Remember to work and move within your means (only go as far as you are comfortable and able). This is not an exhaustive list by any means, simply a few ideas to help get our bodies out of the positions and stresses sitting can put on us.
Struggling with Pain? Book an Appointment Today!
Looking for expert guidance on relieving pain and improving your core stability after long periods of sitting? Our physical therapists and specialists at Coury & Buehler Physical Therapy are here to help you move, live, and feel better! A representative will be in touch shortly.WANT MORE TIPS?

Kris grew up in Anaheim, CA where he played Basketball and participated in Track and Field. He was introduced to Physical Therapy while at Cal State Fullerton after shadowing PTs in the area. Kris loves helping people understand their bodies better and return to the things they love doing.
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