When meeting physical activity guidelines is not enough: the interplay of sedentary and active behaviors

Abstract

The combined effects of physical activity (PA) and sitting time on health have been inadequately studied. Sitting time has not been thoroughly measured in existing studies. The high prevalence of sitting in modern society may well present a situation where merely meeting guidelines is insufficient to realize health benefits. Identifying a dose of PA that negates the harmful effects of prolonged sitting should be a priority as research into the health effects of sitting progresses. Utilizing a group of high socio-economic status, highly active subjects of varying PA volume may allow identification of such a threshold, which may, in turn, shed light on more effective PA recommendations for highly sedentary individuals. Additional investigations into different sitting contexts, enhanced measurement techniques, and expanded surveillance may also be warranted.