Prolonged sitting is secretly damaging your arteries, cardiologists warn. Dr. Nadim Geloo, a cardiologist and senior director at Abbott’s Structural Heart Division, explains that arteries act as the heart’s lifelines, delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. When these vessels become stiff or narrowed, the heart must work harder, leading to wear and tear.

Dr. Neil D. Shah of Northwell Health notes that even an hour or two of uninterrupted sitting can decrease blood flow and artery function. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2025 suggests that standard exercise guidelines may not be enough to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. Dr. Kevin Shah describes arteries as “the body’s plumbing system” that becomes stiff when inactive for extended periods.

Cardiologists emphasize that a sedentary lifestyle involves more than just skipping workouts. Even people who exercise regularly can be sedentary if they spend eight to ten hours daily sitting. Simple strategies like taking microbreaks every 30 to 60 minutes, walking after meals, and creating environmental triggers can significantly improve artery function without requiring major lifestyle changes.