Sedentary Behavior

The June 2015 edition of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise had an article looking at muscle activity and blood markers. Muscle activity at the thigh was measured for one day and then compared with blood biomarkers. They found that the blood markers HDL and triglycerides were more favorable in those with less time inactive. This was independent of how vigorous they exercised for a short period of time. It was more important to keep a low level of muscle activity throughout the day than one large bout of moderate to vigorous exercise. Working out does have its benefits, of course, but it is equally important to keep moving throughout the day. Standing while working does work the thigh muscles, your largest muscles, more so than sitting still.