Slovenian Experts Warn: Our Bodies Are Made for Movement, Not Sitting

Slovenia, like much of the world, is grappling with the pervasive health consequences of a sedentary lifestyle. The adage "sitting is the new smoking" is increasingly validated by scientific research, highlighting that even regular exercise cannot fully counteract the damage caused by spending most waking hours seated.

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Sitting is the new smoking.

Prof. Dr. Boštjan Šimunič from the Institute of Kinesiology at ZRS Koper emphasizes that the human body is fundamentally designed for movement. Prolonged inactivity disrupts optimal functioning of our muscular, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems, leading to a cascade of negative effects including slowed metabolism, insulin resistance, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, muscle weakness, and even cognitive decline.

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Our muscular-skeletal, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems function optimally when we are regularly physically active, as movement stimulates circulation, maintains muscle strength, joint mobility, and effectively regulates metabolism.

The institute's project, Step Reduction, is actively investigating these impacts. Their findings underscore a critical message for Slovenians: while dedicated exercise is important, it is insufficient if the majority of the day is spent inactive. The key lies in integrating frequent, short bursts of movement throughout the day to maintain bodily health and counteract the risks associated with modern, desk-bound work and leisure activities. This local research provides vital context for public health initiatives aimed at promoting a more active way of life within Slovenia.

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Sedentary lifestyle is very harmful; with a lack of movement, metabolism gradually slows down, insulin sensitivity decreases, and the risk of type 2 diabetes and fat accumulation increases.