A new medical study has suggested that spending around four hours a day sitting may be associated with better health outcomes, while both excessive and very limited sitting time could increase health risks.
The findings, published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science, are based on an analysis of data from more than 41,000 individuals.
Researchers examined the relationship between daily sitting time and overall health, seeking to determine how much sedentary behavior can be considered relatively safe.
According to the study, individuals who spent an average of four hours per day sitting had a lower risk of various health conditions compared with those who sat for less than two hours or more than eight hours daily.
The researchers noted that the balance between the benefits and risks of sitting varies from person to person. For physically active individuals, moderate sitting time may support recovery, reduce stress on bones and joints, and contribute to overall well-being.
However, the study emphasized that prolonged sitting remains a significant health concern and has been linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other serious medical conditions.
The researchers concluded that the relationship between sitting and health is more complex than previously thought, but stressed that reducing excessive sedentary behavior and increasing physical activity should remain key public health priorities.
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