According to recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), only about 73% of adults in the world meet the minimum level of exercise, while the rate of inactivity is still at an alarming level.
A sedentary lifestyle is understood as not reaching minimum physical activity levels. Although light activities such as walking or housework can still be done, the lack of moderate and vigorous activities makes many people spend most of their day sitting.
Studies show that adults can sit an average of 6 to nearly 10 hours a day. According to WHO, this is the leading cause that can increase the risk of premature death.
Biologically, the habit of sitting for a long time slows down metabolism, reduces the activity of enzymes that help break down fat in the blood. This can lead to fat accumulation, metabolic disorders and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Not only that, lack of exercise also weakens muscles, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia and circulatory problems such as varicose veins.
According to experts, exercise still brings benefits even when you have to sit a lot. However, prolonged sitting continuously still increases the risk of premature death, especially in people who are less active.
The recommended solution from Scott Lear - Professor of Health Sciences (Simon Fraser University) is to reduce continuous sitting time and increase exercise during the day. Replacing about 30 minutes of sitting with physical activity can help reduce the risk of premature death.
In addition, office workers should get up and do light exercises every 20-30 minutes, combine walking when talking on the phone or organizing short meetings when moving.
Experts emphasize that although exercise brings obvious benefits, limiting a sedentary lifestyle is equally important in protecting long-term health.
