A sedentary life is defined as being physically inactive both at work and at home and failing to participate in a proper exercise program for at least 20 continuous minutes at least three times a week. If you plan on living a life like this here are some hazards to your health you should be aware of:

You more than double your risk of getting diabetes. Vigorous physical activity helps prevent insulin resistance, the underlying cause of adult onset diabetes. A recent study showed that for every 2 hours a person watched TV daily (a dangerous sedentary pursuit), their risk of diabetes increased 14%.

You increase your risk of cancer. Sedentary or inactive people are 30 - 40% more likely to develop cancer. One study showed a 40% decrease in cancer mortality in high-fit persons compared to low-fit persons.

A sedentary lifestyle increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke. It is no surprise to anyone that couch potatoes have the highest risk of a heart attack. Exercise strengthens the heart and its pipes and keeps them in good health protecting them from disease.

Lack of physical activity accelerates muscle tissue loss in adults and eventually adequate strength to function properly is also lost. This leads to disability and dependence on others. The best way to stay out of the nursing home in the future is to get regular strength training exercise now!

Inactivity weakens your bones. Just like muscles, bones require regular weight bearing exercise to maintain their mineral content and strength. Every year we get older (past age 25), the bones grow a little weaker and this process is much faster in inactive persons. Strength training is the best exercise for bone health.

Inactive people are more likely to become depressed. Physical activity is a good mood elevator. Staying strong and fit is good for your mental health as well as your physical health.

Your immune system is likely to be weakened. People who get regular vigorous physical activity have the best functioning immune system. It is this system that combats diseases such as cancer and illnesses such as the flu and colds.

A no exercise lifestyle makes you more likely to gain excess body fat. Studies show that exercising three times per week cuts the risk of obesity by 24%. In our current society, if you don't exercise, you are highly likely to become overweight joining two-thirds of the population now also considered overweight, which leads to a host of other health problems.

After reading all of the hazards of an inactive lifestyle and if you are still considering being sedentary this year, be sure to make an appointment with your physician. You are embarking on a very dangerous journey and you will need medical clearance before you begin. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to proceed. If it isn't, you could consider getting started on a proper exercise program that includes strength training exercise and you may get a whole new outlook on life.