APA Dictionary of Psychology

adj. any activity or behavior during waking hours that involves minimal physical movement and low energy expenditure, typically while sitting, reclining, or lying down, such as desk-based work, prolonged screen use, reading, or motorized travel. Sedentary behavior is distinct from simply not meeting exercise guidelines; a person can be physically active yet still accumulate high amounts of sedentary time. Extended sedentary time is associated with elevated risk for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, poorer metabolic health, musculoskeletal discomfort, and symptoms of anxiety and depression, and it may worsen functioning in some chronic conditions. Health guidance increasingly emphasizes both regular physical activity and reducing uninterrupted sitting—for example, by incorporating brief movement breaks, standing, or light activity throughout the day—to support overall health and well-being. —sedentariness n.