#SittingRisks

As work and study increasingly require long hours at a desk, health professionals warn that sedentary routines can quietly undermine wellbeing. Experts highlight the gluteal muscles—the trio in the buttocks—as essential to protect the lower back, support pelvic stability, and improve walking and running. A respected physical therapist featured in a well-known health publication stresses that weak glutes can have wide-ranging consequences for daily function and long-term health.

For Thai audiences, the message hits close to home. Remote work, online study, and screen time have surged nationwide, while traditional daily activity declines. This shift raises concerns about musculoskeletal pain, metabolic risk, and reduced energy for everyday tasks. Local clinicians in Bangkok and Chiang Mai report rising cases of back and hip discomfort tied to prolonged sitting, a trend mirrored across Asia. In Thai clinics, clinicians describe a growing awareness of what some call “dead butt syndrome”—gluteal amnesia that can be prevented with simple movements.

With a growing number of people spending long hours seated for work or study, health specialists worldwide are sounding the alarm about the hidden dangers of modern sedentary habits. According to recent expert analysis, the gluteal muscles—the group of three muscles located in the buttocks—are emerging as the most vital, yet overlooked, muscle group to strengthen, especially for those who spend much of their day sitting. This advice is gaining considerable attention among physical therapists and fitness authorities, including a prominent physical therapist cited in Fit&Well, who emphasizes the significant health consequences of weak glutes for both daily function and long-term wellbeing (Fit&Well).