Final answer:
False, prolonged sitting can lead to a shortened and tight psoas muscle, not a lengthened one. To maintain a healthy psoas, it is better to engage in yoga.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that sitting for long periods of time can help lengthen the psoas is false. The psoas muscle, which is a deep-seated core muscle connecting the lumbar vertebrae to the femur, is actually shortened when we sit for extended periods. This happens because the hips are in a flexed position when seated.
Consequently, rather than lengthening, prolonged sitting can contribute to a shortened psoas, which may result in discomfort and reduced flexibility. To prevent or counteract a shortened psoas, it is recommended to engage in activities that promote lengthening and strengthening of the muscle.
This might include practicing yoga, engaging in targeted stretching exercises, and incorporating regular movement into one's daily routine. Specifically, exercises like the pigeon pose in yoga, hip flexor stretches, or lunges can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy psoas muscle.