How should online health-promoting communities address the health hazards of too much sitting?

DOI: 10.5176/2251-3833_GHC14.12

Authors: Leesa Costello, Julie Dare, Gloria Askander and Marie-Louise McDermott

Abstract: This paper adds value to investigations of the health implications of prolonged sitting by exploring the significance of sitting time for online health-promoting communities. Drawing on an Australian online health-promoting community, it explores the significance of sitting time for community members, managers and funders. It proposes actions each of these groups and their counterparts at social networking sites can take to address the hazards associated with sedentary behaviours.

Keywords: sitting; sedentary behaviour; screen time; online health-promoting communities; health risks of social networks; physical activity levels; self efficacy; active sitting; exergaming