Even physical activity at other times of the day cannot change the fact that if you sit more than six hours per day¹ you are at a very significant risk for increased early death.

This study of 123,216 Americans found similar results to a Canadian study I mentioned last year.

Women who reported more than six hours per day of sitting were 37 percent more likely to die during the time period studied than those who sat fewer than 3 hours a day. The risk jumped to 94% if also inactive. Men who sat more than 6 hours a day were 18 percent more likely to die than those who sat fewer than 3 hours per day. The risk jumped to 48% if also inactive. Associations were stronger for cardiovascular disease mortality than for cancer mortality.

How many of us sit six hours a day, day after day. While exercise helps it cannot offset the risk of early death from sitting so much time each day. I have said for years that stagnation is an enemy of health. This is clear proof that are bodies are made to be used. The old expression “Use it or lose it” could be modified to “Move it or check out early.” There is such a thing as a standing desk.