What Is the Meaning of Sedentary Behavior?

Sitting is the easiest sedentary activity to distinguish

According to Medscape Today, sedentary behavior refers to activities that do not increase energy expenditure higher than resting levels. The difference between sedentary and light physical activities should be distinguished.

Identification

Activities considered sedentary include sitting, lying down and sleeping because they don't require any muscle recruitment. Associated activities, such as watching television and reading, are also in the sedentary category.

Considerations

Despite requiring only light energy expenditures, daily activities, such as walking, washing dishes and folding laundry, are not considered sedentary behaviors because they each require muscles to be activated.

Effects

In a recent study published in "Circulation," a journal of the American Heart Association, sedentary behavior was found to be directly associated with a greater risk of death from cardiovascular problems, cancer and all causes.

Significance

According to Dr. Mitchell and colleagues in a 2009 article published in "Obesity" journal, sedentary behavior is directly associated with obesity in children.

Misconceptions

It's important to note that sedentary behavior is not simply synonymous with activities that are not considered exercise. They must require no muscle activity.

References

• "Obesity"; Sedentary Behaviour and Obesity in a Large Cohort of Children; J. A. Mitchell et al.; August 2009
• "Los Angeles Times": Watching TV Shortens Life Span, Study Finds; Jeannine Stein; January 12, 2010
• Medscape Today: The Evolving Definition of "Sedentary": The Definition and Measurement of Sedentary Behavior