Too Much Sitting: A Serious 21st Century Health Risk

Abstract

While weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is considered a well-established key determinant for regulating weight and reducing risks of obesity and associated noncommunicable diseases, MVPA alone may not be enough to offset excessive sitting time. This integrative literature review aims to advance the discussion about sedentary behavior as a significant independent health risk for obesity and associated noncommunicable diseases, to increase awareness, to synthesize important evidence on sedentary behavior and a number of negative health outcomes, and to present the application of a whole-day approach to physical activity as a feasible strategy to promote health.