It’s no secret that many of us spend more time sitting than ever before. Whether you’re working from home, binge-watching your favorite series, or scrolling through social media, those hours can add up quickly. A new study from Ben’s Natural Health shines a spotlight on the countries where sedentary lifestyles pose the greatest health risks—and the findings may surprise you.
Greece Tops the List
According to the June 2026 report, Greece ranks as the country most at risk from a sedentary lifestyle. More than one-third of adults report that they don’t participate in regular exercise or sports, making physical inactivity a growing health concern.
Remote Work Means More Time Sitting
Working from home certainly has its perks, but it can also encourage us to spend more time in our chairs. The study found that nearly 39% of workers in the Netherlands work remotely, with residents spending an average of 6.5 hours each day sitting at a desk. Without intentional movement breaks, those hours can have a significant impact on overall health.
Obesity Rates Remain a Concern
The report also found that Malta has the highest obesity rate among the countries ranking near the top of the sedentary lifestyle index. Nearly one-third of the population (32.8%) has been diagnosed with obesity, highlighting the connection between inactivity and long-term health challenges.
Why Sitting Too Much Matters
While many jobs require long hours at a computer, experts continue to emphasize the importance of adding movement throughout the day. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference, including:
- Taking a short walk every hour.
- Stretching between meetings.
- Standing while taking phone calls.
- Choosing the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Scheduling time for regular exercise that fits your lifestyle.
Remember, you don’t have to spend hours in the gym to improve your health. Consistent movement throughout the day can help support your heart, muscles, joints, and overall well-being.
How the Study Was Conducted
Researchers from Ben’s Natural Health developed a Sedentary Living Risk Score by analyzing several factors across countries, including average daily sitting time, obesity rates, the percentage of remote workers, and the share of adults who report little to no regular physical activity. Together, these measurements identify where sedentary lifestyles are already widespread and where the risks may continue to grow.
The Bottom Line
No matter where you live, the study serves as a good reminder that our daily habits matter. Finding simple ways to move more throughout the day can have lasting benefits for both physical and mental health. Even small lifestyle changes today can help build healthier habits for tomorrow.
