Attention, Lazy People: Being Inactive is More Unhealthy Than Being Obese

You already know sitting all day is killing you. But now, new research shows that living your life completely inactive may even be more deadly than being obese.A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition of more than 330,000 European men and women over 12 years revealed that health problems resulting from inactivity may be responsible for twice as many deaths as is obesity. Whether or not a person is at his or her ideal weight, being inactive can have serious consequences for both normal- and overweight people.But don’t freak out, lazy people.. Researchers also found that just 20 minutes of moderate activity — even just a brisk walk to the shop for more Cheetos — every day is enough to minmize the dangerous risk factors (by 30 percent, in fact).Often, obesity and inactivity go hand-in-hand. But the new findings made two important observations: 1) that obese people can increase their health and lifespan with small changes like adding 20 minutes of walking each day, even if they’re not shedding any pounds, and 2) those who are naturally skinny yet inactive are still not healthy no matter what their figures may suggest (it’s called skinny fat), and need to incorporate physical activity into their lives too.Here are some helpful tips to move around more during the day:

• Walk to work when you can. Try parking at a lot a short walk away or getting off at a bus or metro stop a little further from your office.
• If you don’t have time to hit the gym after a long day, try getting up throughout the day and taking short walking breaks.
• Go out to grab lunch instead of ordering delivery.
• Hold (casual!) meetings with coworkers or catch up with interns by taking a walk around the block together.
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Pace around when taking a phone call instead of sitting.

Any creative way you can add some more movement into your day can make a difference in your health!Related Articles:Stretches to Loosen Tight Hips After Sitting All Day7 Strength Training Exercises You Can Do in Your Chair