Exercise Alone May Not Offset Damage From Sitting All Day, Expert Warns
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Published on April 30, 2026.
Longtime sitting, or sitting, may be linked to serious health risks such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and early death, according to an expert from The University of Nottingham. Despite being told to exercise more or eat better, prolonged sitting may not fully offset the risks of sedentary behavior, as physical inactivity is not the same thing. Physical inactivity, which involves not doing enough moderate or vigorous exercise, is more sedentary than physical activity. The effects of prolonged sitting can include changes in the body's metabolism, including decreased skeletal muscle activity, insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular disease and diabetes. These changes can lead to high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and the accumulation of abdominal fat. Despite these changes, prolonged siting can also lead to increased alertness, concentration, and energy levels. The workplace is one of the most important settings for addressing this issue, as most adults spend most of their waking hours at work. Reducing sitting time does not require a gym membership or a dramatic office overhaul, but small, regular interruptions to sit can make a meaningful difference.
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