Prolonged Sitting Could Be Harmful to Younger People, Too

Sedentary Lifestyle Linked to Increased Health Risks

Contrary to popular belief, young people spend just as much time sitting down as their elders. In fact, according to US research published in the journal PLOS One, millennials now spend more than 60 hours per week sitting.

This sedentary lifestyle could increase their risk of heart disease and accelerate other signs of ageing, scientists say.

Study Finds Young Adults Spend Most of Their Day Sitting

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of California Riverside came to this conclusion after studying data involving over 1,000 young adults aged between 28 and 49. These participants sat for an average of almost nine hours a day, although some were more sedentary than others, with some spending up to 16 hours a day in a seated position.

Physical Activity Levels Are Not Enough

The adults reported doing between 80 and 160 minutes of moderate physical activity per week on average, and less than 135 minutes of vigorous exercise per week – a fairly active lifestyle. Even so, sitting for hours on end exposes them to the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, the experts said.

Risks of Prolonged Sitting

Notably, young adults who sit for 8.5 hours a day could have a moderate to high risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease, even if they follow recommended physical activity guidelines.

The researchers also found that time spent sitting had an impact on the cholesterol levels and body mass index of the participants, no matter how sporty they were in their free time.

Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting is Key

Experts recommend breaking up prolonged periods of sitting by changing your position or engaging in some physical activity. This could be as simple as taking a short walk during your lunch break or doing a few jumping jacks during commercial breaks while watching TV.

High-Intensity Exercise Can Mitigate Risks

High-intensity exercise is far more effective in counteracting the damaging effects of a sedentary lifestyle on the body. Indeed, the researchers found that young adults who engaged in high-intensity activities such as running or cycling for 30 minutes a day were metabolically younger than their peers of the same age.

Conclusion

It’s not enough to work out more to combat a sedentary lifestyle: it’s especially crucial to break up prolonged periods of sitting. That’s why it’s so important to vary your work positions, by walking while making calls, for example, or using a standing desk.

FAQs

* What are the risks of prolonged sitting?
Prolonged sitting is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and accelerated signs of ageing.
* How much physical activity is recommended?
The recommended amount of moderate physical activity is between 80 and 160 minutes per week, and less than 135 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
* What is the best way to break up prolonged sitting?
Experts recommend changing your position or engaging in some physical activity, such as taking a short walk or doing a few jumping jacks.
* Is high-intensity exercise effective in mitigating the risks of a sedentary lifestyle?
Yes, high-intensity exercise, such as running or cycling, can help counteract the damaging effects of a sedentary lifestyle on the body.