Sedentary behavior detrimental for heart: Study

A new study has revealed that sedentary behaviors may lower cardiorespiratory fitness levels.

According to the study by cardiologists at UT Southwestern Medical Center, two hours of sedentary behavior can be just as harmful as 20 minutes of exercise is beneficial.

The researchers said that sedentary behavior may be an important determinant of cardiorespiratory fitness, independent of exercise and the negative effect of six hours of sedentary time on fitness levels was similar in magnitude to the benefit of one hour of exercise.

Jarett Berry, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and Clinical Science and senior author of the study, said that previous studies have reported that sedentary behavior was associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular outcomes; however, the mechanisms through which this occurs are not completely understood.

Berry added that their data suggest that sedentary behavior may increase risk through an impact on lower fitness levels, and that avoiding sedentary behavior throughout the day may represent an important companion strategy to improve fitness and health, outside of regular exercise activity.

The study also found that when sitting for prolonged periods of time, any movement is good movement, and was also associated with better fitness and if one is stuck at your desk for a while, then they should shift positions frequently, get up and stretch in the middle of a thought, pace while on a phone call, or even fidget.

The study was published online in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.