New kid on the block? Why we need to reduce sedentary behaviours as well as increase physical activity in youth

Stuart Biddle, PhD School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences Loughborough University, UK

It has long been known that it is beneficial to increase physical activity levels of young people. However, recently, a new concept has emerged – that of ‘sedentary behaviour’. Although researchers have proposed that the single behaviour of TV viewing might be associated with overweight and obesity, it is only relatively recently that studies have investigated wider aspects of sedentary behaviour and additional health outcomes. In this presentation, I will summarise findings on the prevalence, correlates and health outcomes of sedentary behaviour in young people.