If there’s one thing we’ve likely all shared during the pandemic and the lockdown, it’s this: most of us have spent a lot more time sitting with less physical movement than usual. We no longer trek to an office, shlep to the store, or head out to social gatherings, and just as likely we’ve upped our intake of binge-watching and eating. In fact, pre-pandemic data demonstrated that a typical US adult spends 75% of waking hours being sedentary and with the lockdown, even the activity levels of previously active adults have dropped by 32%. So forget about the coronavirus for a moment: Instead, what health hazards have arisen from all this sitting?

First, we know that “detraining” (ie, when you stop exercising or moving), can have measurable negative consequences, especially for older adults. Your muscles may have atrophied, your energy level has likely declined, and as one expert noted, those who are more sedentary can quickly see the loss of “working range” fitness, or the ability to perform basic activities without becoming winded or fatigued. We know from previous agebuzz posts that sitting for long periods of time can pose significant risks to both your physical health as well as your brain health. And now we have further insights into the harms that can accompany a sedentary lifestyle: New research published online in JAMA Oncology reports that in a study of 8000 middle-aged and older adults, greater amounts of sedentary time were associated with higher risks of cancer mortality. Further research examining the effects of physical inactivity and sitting on astronauts and in other research studies show that sitting for an additional hour a day can increase your risk of diabetes by 22% and your risk of obesity (and all its implications) by 30%. The bottom line? It’s estimated that a sedentary lifestyle is the 4th leading cause of death worldwide.

Clearly you need to stand up- and now. And for some further inspiration? A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine revealed lasting health and mood benefits from replacing some of your sedentary time with light activities, or just going to sleep! So, if you need some suggestions about how to get your bottom off the couch, turn off the television and instead click here.