Research
Energy balance
Sedentary behavior is defined as any waking behavior characterized by an energy expenditure ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents (METs) while in a sitting or reclining posture, and it is distinct from moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
Understand that sitting is not just 'not exercising.' It is a distinct behavior with its own health risks. Aim to reduce total sitting time, not just increase exercise.
StrongQualifiesVERY_HIGH confidence
The Sedentary Behaviour Research Network... suggests the following definition for sedentary behavior: 'Sedentary behavior refers to any waking behavior characterized by an energy expenditure ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents while in a sitting or reclining posture.'... consensus is building that sedentary behavior is distinct from lack of MVPA.
Why this rating
This is a consensus definition adopted by the advisory.
Source
Sedentary Behavior and Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Deborah Rohm Young et al. · Circulation · 2016
DOI 10.1161/cir.0000000000000440
clinical_guidelineCited 797×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
- Higher time spent in sedentary behavior is associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity, and CVD mortality in adults, independent of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).Good
- High sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus, independent of demographic factors and adiposity indices, although BMI partially mediates this effect.Good
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