In today's world we're always on the go and it's hard to find time to exercise.
And University of Missouri researchers found there's an increasing amount of people that lead physically inactive lifestyles.
In Sunday’s Facebook Story of the Day we found out why researchers say this is so dangerous.
MU researchers say physical inactivity is the primary cause of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and fatty liver disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 25% of Americans have inactive lifestyles...
Meaning they take fewer than 5,000 steps a day.
And 75% do not meet the weekly exercise recommendations of 150 minutes of moderate activity each week and muscle strengthening activity twice a week, to maintain good health.
Researchers said even people who set aside time for exercise regularly but are otherwise sedentary, may not be active enough to combat these diseases.
The research also found more active kids are less likely to have fatty liver disease.
If doctors and parents intervene and get children to exercise and lose weight, it will lower their body fat and provide long-term health benefits if they keep up with those lifestyle changes.
Experts said everyone should try to take at least 10,000 steps a day
Small changes can increase the number of steps people take in their daily routines, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking to a coworker's office rather than calling, or planning time for short walks throughout the day.
To become more active, experts say you should start by finding a physical activity you enjoy doing.
They said summer is a great time to start since there are so many outdoor activities you can participate in.
To learn more about the research click here.
(The MU News Bureau contributed to this story.)
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKRCG