Working from home may contribute to shorter lifespans by reducing the amount of everyday physical activity, England’s chief medical officer, Prof Sir Chris Whitty, has warned. Highlighting mounting evidence on the dangers of sedentary lifestyles, Prof Whitty pointed to a study involving 30 million people which showed that just 11 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, daily could reduce the risk of early death by nearly 25%.

Prof Whitty cautioned that many remote workers are engaging in minimal physical movement during the day, partly because they no longer make daily commutes or run routine errands. He noted that the shift toward hybrid working, combined with habits like online shopping and extended periods of sitting, has diminished natural opportunities for activity, exacerbating long-term health risks.

“Hybrid working means quite a lot of people could very easily do very little... where previously people would be routinely going to work, and that often meant at least some physical activity,” he said. Online shopping also allows people to avoid walking to stores, further contributing to inactivity.

This warning accompanies the publication of updated official physical activity guidelines by the UK’s four chief medical officers, which emphasize the importance of reducing prolonged sitting, even for those meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. The guidance encourages incorporating physical movement throughout the day via daily chores, gardening, dancing, or walking to local shops, reinforcing the message that every step counts.

Prof Whitty further highlighted emerging health concerns linked to weight-loss medications, particularly GLP-1 drugs recently authorized in the UK. While these medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, have gained popularity for obesity treatment, he emphasized the necessity of strength training alongside their use to prevent muscle loss and frailty later in life.

Government data show that physical activity levels have declined by around 20% since the 1960s, with routine cycling decreasing by over 60% within a generation. Meanwhile, the proportion of adults classified as overweight or obese has risen to 66%, up from 64% in 2019. Some experts have cautioned that increased reliance on food delivery services could contribute to Britain becoming the most obese nation in Europe.

Prof Whitty described physical activity as a “miracle cure” due to its broad benefits in preventing or treating illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. He urged the public to recognize the risks of sedentary lifestyles fostered by modern habits and to prioritize movement wherever possible, stating: “Any activity is better than none, and more is better still.”