Definition - What does Sedentary Lifestyle mean?
A sedentary lifestyle is one that involves very little or no physical exercise, wherein most of the day is spent sitting, lying down and expending very little energy. This type of lifestyle has increased dramatically over the past few decades as a result of an increase in office jobs that involve sitting, as well as an increase in commute times and screen time while off the job. In more recent years, research has concluded that those who sit for prolonged periods have a higher risk of disease and death than those who are more active during the day. A sedentary lifestyle is also linked to musculoskeletal problems such as back pain. As a result of these risks, an increasing number of employers are encouraging employees to move more during the day, use standing desks, and participate in in-office exercise programs.
SureHire explains Sedentary Lifestyle
A sedentary workforce is at increased risk for a number of preventable illnesses and causes of death. Health issues related to a sedentary lifestyle include:
- Anxiety
- Cardiovascular disease
- Colon cancer
- Depression
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Lipid disorders
- Mortality
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Spinal disc herniation
Organizations can implement various health policies in order to reduce sedentary behavior, including:
- Exercises during workday
- Walking challenges among employees
- Allowing employees to move more often or stand up at their desks
- Health screening (blood pressure or cholesterol screening)
