A new study from the American Heart Association says people that spend too much time sitting could be at risk for heart disease and stroke - even if they spend a lot of time exercising.

The study says adults in the United States spend about six to eight hours a day sitting.

Dr. Louise Spadora, a cardiologist at St. Francis Hospital, says that's just too much.

"If you're using less energy, your metabolic rate is slower, your blood sugar might rise, your blood pressure might go up, your cholesterol levels might increase," says Dr. Spadora. "As a result, you may gain some weight, and all those factors are important risk factors for developing heart disease."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in both men and women.

Doctors say short laps around an office can help stave off health risks.