Uncover the Truth: How Sitting Can Ruin Your Glutes

You've probably heard the buzz about something called “office chair butt,” and if you’re like many of us, you might be scratching your head wondering what all the fuss is about. This intriguing term has exploded on TikTok, sparking conversations among content creators and health enthusiasts alike concerning the impact prolonged sitting has on our glutes—the muscles that help give us that coveted shape.

It all started when TikTok user Alexandra shared a cheeky video early last July that quickly amassed over 7 million views. “Just found out about office chair butt so I will be using the standing desk feature for all 8 hours every day,” she shared, prompting many to examine their own sitting habits. Another user, Itzel, humorously dubbed office chair butt her “new fear,” and with 2.6 million views on her video, the concern is clearly resonating with others.

But is “office chair butt” a legitimate issue or just a playful trend? To find out, we consulted some experts to explore how our sedentary lifestyles and desk jobs may be affecting our bodies. According to Evan Johnson, DPT, from Och Spine Care Outpatient Physical Therapy, there isn’t a strict medical definition for office chair butt, but sitting for extended hours can definitely influence your glute health. “When you sit for long stretches—day after day—you neglect your glutes, which may become deconditioned and lose muscle mass over time,” explains Andrew Bach, DO, a physical medicine specialist.

As we sit, our muscles—including the glutes—aren’t actively engaged, leading to weakness. Johnson also notes that, over time, muscles can be partially replaced by fatty tissue, making them less resilient. This can alter the appearance of our muscles, a phenomenon that many are starting to identify as “office chair butt,” especially when it comes to our gluteus maximus—the body's largest muscle. “When you sit on these muscles all day without exercising them, they can lose both tone and shape,” adds Johnson. “You may end up with a flat butt or a softer appearance if muscle is replaced by fat.”

Another concern with excessive sitting is that