There is increasing evidence that, unless you are a wheelchair user, sitting down too much can be a risk to your health
Studies have linked being inactive with being overweight and obese, type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer, and early death.
Sitting for long periods is thought to slow the metabolism, which affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and break down body fat.
However most of the evidence is based on observational studies, which have only shown an association between sitting and ill health but not a direct cause.
Tips to reduce sitting time for Adults aged 19 to 64
- take the stairs
- set a reminder to get up every 30 minutes
- work standing
- stand or walk around while on the phone
- take a walk break every time you take a coffee or tea break
- walk to a colleague's desk instead of emailing or calling
- swap some TV time for more active tasks or hobbies
Tips to reduce sitting time for older people aged 65 and over
- avoid long periods sat in front of a TV or computer
- stand up and move during TV advert breaks
- stand or walk while on the phone
- use the stairs as much as possible
- take up active hobbies such as gardening and DIY
- join in community-based activities, such as dance classes and walking groups
- take up active play with grandchildren, if you have them
- do most types of housework
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/why-sitting-too-much-is-bad-for-us/
