As more individuals find themselves working at desks than ever before, an increase in the size of our bottoms has emerged, commonly referred to as ‘desk derriere’.
A recent investigation which analyzed the buttocks of sedentary individuals discovered that muscle mass was diminishing and deteriorating due to a lack of physical activity.
Research conducted at Tel Aviv University also indicated that sedentary lifestyles promote the flourishing of fat cells in the buttocks, resulting in thick layers of fat forming deep within muscle tissue.
A lack of physical activity coupled with poor dietary choices are significant contributors to desk derriere, although other factors also have an influence.
If a person spends their entire day seated, the hip flexor muscles located at the front of the hip may become overactive and tight.
Consequently, the primary muscles responsible for the shape of the buttocks – the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus – tend to become less active and generally underutilized, which leads to reduced muscle tone. The gluteal muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing and controlling the movement of the pelvis, legs, and lower back. When the lower back and abdominal muscles weaken and the hip flexor muscles tighten up, Lower Crossed Syndrome may emerge. This condition manifests as discomfort in the lower back, knees, or ankles, and can sometimes result in restricted movement.
The extended duration spent sitting at a desk may also contribute to the flatness of an office bottom.
The Tel Aviv study revealed that preadipocyte cells – which serve as precursors to fat cells – subjected to continuous mechanical pressure, such as that caused by sitting, transformed into fat cells and accumulated fat at a rate twice that of normal fat cells.
‘The findings suggest that prolonged sitting increases the likelihood of fat storage in the buttocks,’ explains Professor Amit Gefen, who led the 2011 research. ‘They also imply that sitting for extended periods may widen one’s bottom.’
‘After our study was published, numerous experts reached out to me claiming to have observed this occurrence in obese individuals.’
Many overweight individuals, of course, have a natural predisposition to store fat in certain areas of their bodies.
Women, in particular, tend to accumulate fat around their bottoms. This phenomenon is attributed to an enzyme known as lipoprotein lipase, which determines the specific areas in the body where fat
is deposited. Females usually deposit more fat around the hips, whereas males generally accumulate more around the waist.
Unfortunately, targeted fat reduction is not feasible. Fortunately, the fat present in the buttocks has a lower metabolic activity compared to that in the abdomen – the fat that accumulates around the waist releases enzymes that can lead to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
However, reducing sugar intake is essential, states nutritional therapist Dr. Elisabeth Philipps: ‘Simple carbohydrates trigger the production of insulin, which enhances the body’s fat storage capacity. They can also drain your energy, making you less inclined to exercise.’
Staying well-hydrated can also assist in reducing fluid retention. Those who work at desks for extended periods often overlook proper hydration. Dehydration may prompt cravings for sugary snacks. Lastly, it’s vital to consume adequate amounts of healthy fats. Two servings of oily fish each week or an omega-3 supplement can help enhance skin elasticity in the buttocks.
It is possible to assess whether or not your gluteal muscles are functioning effectively or if To mitigate the risk of developing a desk derriere, a straightforward exercise can be beneficial. Begin by lying flat on your stomach, then bend one knee at a 90-degree angle, ensuring the sole of the foot is directed toward the ceiling. While maintaining that foot position, gradually lift the leg approximately five inches off the ground, engaging the corresponding buttock to achieve this lift. Hold the leg steady in this elevated position for 30 seconds, ensuring that it remains motionless; any tension experienced should be localized to the buttock itself. If the raised leg experiences significant shaking or you feel strain in your hamstrings or lower back, it indicates that the gluteal muscles are not activating properly.
To release any tension in the hip flexor muscles and reactivate the gluteals, self-administer a sports massage. Utilize a tennis ball to gently roll over the tight areas of your hip flexors. If tenderness is present, maintain the ball’s pressure on that spot for approximately one minute or until the discomfort begins to subside.
This practice should be incorporated into your routine for five to ten minutes a day, repeated five days weekly, until you notice an absence of tension.
Engaging in exercise is essential as it entails dynamic loading (moving while bearing weight) on muscle cells, which helps to prevent fat accumulation and promotes fat burning.
by Susan Floyd
