Did you know that your smartphone could be secretly sabotaging your health? Recent research conducted at Kent State University discovered some alarming facts about smartphone usage and its effects on physical fitness. Surprisingly, students with smartphones were found to have measurable, negative health effects compared to their non-smartphone using counterparts.
The Downside of Smartphone Convenience
You might think that having a smartphone promotes a more active lifestyle, allowing you to move around easily without being tethered to a desktop. However, the mobility smartphones provide appears to be a double-edged sword. Kent State University researchers discovered that high smartphone usage is actually linked to less physical activity, increased sedentary behavior, weight gain, and poor health.
The study involved over 300 college students who were surveyed about their smartphone usage and activity level. Out of these participants, 49 had their fitness level and body composition tested. The results were striking: students who spent a significant amount of time on their smartphones (up to 14 hours per day) were less fit than those who only used their phones for an average of slightly more than 90 minutes daily.
More Screen Time, Less Exercise
Why is this happening? One possible reason is that the increased screen time means there’s less time dedicated to physical activity. With so many apps and features readily available on a smartphone, it’s easy to become immersed in one’s device and lose track of time. Consider how many times you’ve been engrossed in social media, watching videos, or even playing games—hours can fly by without noticing.
By spending so much time on our smartphones, we are neglecting our overall well-being by not engaging in enough physical activity. According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s recommended that adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise each week. Not meeting these guidelines can leave you feeling sluggish and may even cause weight gain.
The Dangers of Sedentary Behavior
Another issue with increased smartphone usage is the impact of sedentary behavior on our health. When we’re sitting or lying down while using our phones, we’re not burning as many calories, and our bodies aren’t reaping the numerous benefits of regular movement and activity.
In fact, a sedentary lifestyle has been linked to a plethora of health problems. According to an article by Harvard Health Publishing, extended periods of immobility are associated with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and even premature death. Additionally, a lack of regular movement has been linked to a higher likelihood of developing obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels.
Moreover, excessive smartphone use can have various negative effects on mental health, such as contributing to increased anxiety and depression symptoms. A study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior found that individuals who frequently check their phones are more likely to experience negative emotions, as well as report higher stress levels.
Striking a Healthy Balance
Of course, it’s impossible (and unreasonable) to expect everyone to completely detach from their smartphones. However, it’s crucial to find a healthy balance between screen time and active living. Here are some suggestions to help you break free from your phone and prioritize your health:
- Set goals for physical activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day, or seek to meet the weekly recommendations provided by the Mayo Clinic mentioned earlier.
- Schedule designated screen-free times: Establish specific hours when you forbid yourself from using your smartphone. This can help reduce the temptation to check your device constantly and will free up time to engage in other activities, such as exercise.
- Incorporate movement into daily tasks: Make it a habit to move around while talking on your phone, take walking breaks during work hours, or even walk up and down the stairs during commercial breaks when watching TV.
- Choose activities over screen time: Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media, opt for more productive or fulfilling pastimes, like engaging in a hobby, reading a book, or spending quality time with friends and family.
- Utilize technology to boost your fitness efforts: Ironically, there are numerous fitness-focused apps and devices that can actually help motivate you to move more. Consider using a step-counter app, tracking your daily workouts, or investing in a wearable fitness tracker.
Remember, the key is moderation. Implementing these tips and making a conscious effort to balance screen time with physical activity will not only improve your physical fitness but will also help safeguard your long-term health. So, why not put your phone down for a while, go for a stroll or hit the gym, and give your body the exercise and attention it deserves?
