What is sedentary behaviour?
Sedentary behaviour is defined as periods of inactivity whilst sitting and contributes to negative cardiometabolic health outcomes and premature death.
Studies have indicated physical inactivity as being the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Approximately 6% to 10% of deaths from non-communicable diseases can be attributed to physical inactivity.
This is why the Baker Institute undertakes a comprehensive range of research to target these deadly diseases, combined with the flexibility and innovation to respond to changing health and community needs, is unique and sets the Baker Institute apart from other health and research Institutes.
Our research into sedentary behaviour is primarily undertaken by our Physical Activity laboratory.
Taking a stand against sitting
The Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and Vodafone Foundation are taking action against prolonged sitting to create a healthier Australia.
The Baker Institute's research shows substantive links between sedentary behaviour and the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer and other diseases. This is quite alarming when you consider that the average Australian adult sits for about nine hours each day. The good news is you can reduce your risk just by getting out of your chair to move around more often, say every 30 minutes.
To help get you moving, the Baker Institute has received support from the Vodafone Foundation to fund and support the launch of Rise & Recharge — a free Smartphone app that is designed to help you stand up, move about and power up.