Reducing the Harm of Sedentary Behavior with Relaxo

How Relaxo Records and Resets Your Sedentary Time

Relaxo uses data from your Apple Watch to track your Physical Effort. When your effort level drops to 1.5 METs or below, the app begins counting your sitting time. You'll get a reminder to stand and move after roughly 60, 90, or 120 minutes of inactivity (you can customize this interval).

Once you start moving—whether you're walking, running, or cycling—and your Physical Effort rises above 1.5 METs, Relaxo automatically switches to active-time tracking. If any activity meets the reset requirement, your sitting timer resets instantly.

Relaxo also includes a library of quick stretches and mobility exercises for your shoulders, neck, back, and limbs. Finishing any of these exercises will also reset the timer.

How Relaxo Defines Sedentary Behavior

The Science of "Sitting Too Long"

What exactly counts as sedentary? According to authorities like the WHO and major research institutions, it is defined as any waking activity with low energy expenditure (under 1.5 METs) while sitting or lying down. Unfortunately, this covers most of our modern lives—from everyday studying and working to watching TV or playing games.

Studies show that the damage isn't instant; it compounds over time. To help you fight this risk, Relaxo utilizes survey data from the WHO and the University of Cambridge to separate sedentary time into different risk stages.

The 5 Levels of Sitting

Your body has a limited tolerance for stillness. As prolonged sitting continues, it progresses through distinct physiological stages: musculoskeletal fatigue, leading to a metabolic slowdown, and eventually, a sharp increase in cardiovascular risk.

Based on these changes, Relaxo divides continuous sitting time into 5 Status Levels. Our logic is straightforward: there is a "safety limit," and crossing it causes health risks to spike. That’s why we recommend a 3-5 minute break every 30-60 minutes to break this cycle and restore your body’s vitality.

Note：

Sometimes your Apple Watch may miss detecting when you stand—for example, due to small wrist movements or sensor limitations. Relaxo recommends breaking up sedentary time by walking, stretching, or doing guided exercises. Why isn’t my Apple Watch always recording stand minutes, and how can I fix it?


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References

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