Even a 10-minute walk can have significant benefits.
For years, the American Heart Association and other health organizations have been warning the public that sitting is seriously damaging to health. Sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes and death.
A new study based on health data from nearly half a million adults found that people who mostly sit at work have a 16% higher risk of dying from heart disease. However, a little activity every day can reduce the risks.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, suggests that sedentary people who get an extra 15 to 30 minutes of physical activity a day can reduce their risk of death to the same level as people who don't sit mostly at work.
Serious risks associated with prolonged sitting can be reduced by regular breaks and additional physical activity.
Changes such as taking more frequent breaks, standing, having a dedicated work space for physical activity and going to the gym can help reduce the risks.
Find easy ways to incorporate exercise into your daily life
Research emphasizes that to be healthier, you must first look at how much you move or don't move. Set some goals to spend a little more time standing, walking, moving, and exercising.
Constantly sedentary people can take advantage of simple work breaks that don't require exercise sessions, such as standing up from their desks or taking a 10-minute walk every few hours.