Question 1

What is sedentary behaviour?

Accepted Answer

Sedentary behaviour is sitting or lying for long periods of time while you’re awake.
This can include sitting at your desk at work or school, driving, or watching TV.  

Limiting sedentary time to 8 hours or less within 24 hours is recommended. This includes: 

 	No more than 3 hours of recreational screen time
 	Breaking up long periods of sitting as often as you can

Replacing sedentary behavior with additional physical activity can provide greater health benefits.  

Follow the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines to get the benefits of a variety of types and intensity of physical activity, to minimize sedentary behavior and to get good quality sleep on a regular basis.

Question 2

I’m physically active; do I need to worry about sitting?

Accepted Answer

Being physically active doesn’t 'undo' being sedentary. Break up long bouts of sedentary behaviour and have no more than 3 hours of recreational screen time.
For the best health benefits, limit sedentary time to 8 hours or less within a 24-hour period. Break up long bouts of sedentary behaviour and have no more than 3 hours of recreational screen time.   

Following the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines helps to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, several cancers, anxiety, depression, dementia, and weight gain. It can also improve bone health, cognition, physical function and the quality of your life.

Question 3

How can I spend less time sitting?

Accepted Answer

For the best health benefits, replace sedentary time with physical activity, and incorporate a variety of movement into your day. Break up bouts of sedentary behaviour as often as possible.
At work:

You can:

 	break up long periods of sitting as often as possible
 	get up from your desk and walk around the office
 	choose a printer that’s farther away from your desk
 	take breaks to fill your water glass
 	have a walking meeting
 	stand when you’re talking on the phone
 	schedule breaks during longer meetings

At home:

You can:

 	limit screen time
 	get up during commercial breaks when you are watching tv
 	take a walk
 	get outside (you are more likely to be doing something active when outside)
 	do some gardening
 	cook or wash the dishes
 	if you have stairs, walk up and down them a few times

Question 4

I need to relax—isn’t that good for me too?

Accepted Answer

When you are relaxed, muscle tension is reduced, your blood pressure is lower and you feel more calm or peaceful.
Relaxation is important to health and well-being. Relaxing can help reduce stress levels.

Relaxation activities could include:

 	gentle stretching
 	meditation
 	a walk in nature
 	yoga
 	a soothing bath
 	listening to your favorite music
 	breathing exercises
 	getting a massage
 	reading
 	socializing with friends

Sedentary Behaviour

What is sedentary behaviour?

I’m physically active; do I need to worry about sitting?

How can I spend less time sitting?

I need to relax—isn’t that good for me too?

What is My To-Do List?