Introduction:
Prolonged sitting has been associated with adverse health outcomes, leading researchers to explore interventions that can mitigate the negative effects of sedentary behaviour.
In a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (study URL: Take a Stand!-a multi-component intervention aimed at reducing sitting time among office workers-a cluster randomized trial (ovid.com)), the effectiveness of a multicomponent work-based intervention in reducing sitting time, increasing sit-to-stand transitions, and improving overall health among office workers was examined.
This blog post delves into the study’s findings and highlights the benefits of incorporating standing desks into your work environment.
Reduced Sitting Time and Prolonged Sitting Periods:
The study involved 317 office workers from 19 offices across four workplaces.
Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group.
The intervention group experienced a comprehensive approach that included the appointment of local ambassadors, management support, environmental changes, a lecture, and a workshop.
Meanwhile, the control group continued with their usual behaviour.
The results were impressive. After one month, the intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction of 71 minutes in sitting time per 8-hour workday compared to the control group (P < 0.001).
This reduction further increased to 48 minutes after three months (P < 0.001).
Moreover, the intervention group experienced a notable decrease in the number of prolonged sitting periods, indicating a more active and dynamic work routine.
Increased Sit-to-Stand Transitions:
One of the key benefits of incorporating standing desks into the workplace is the promotion of sit-to-stand transitions.
The study revealed that the intervention group showed a substantial increase in sit-to-stand transitions compared to the control group.
After one month, the intervention group exhibited a 14% higher rate of sit-to-stand transitions per sitting hour (P = 0.001).
This positive trend persisted even after three months, highlighting the long-term impact of the intervention.
Improved Body Composition:
In addition to reducing sitting time and increasing sit-to-stand transitions, the intervention group also experienced improvements in body composition.
After three months, participants in the intervention group exhibited a lower body fat percentage by 0.61 percentage points compared to the control group (P = 0.011).
This finding underscores the potential of standing desks to contribute to healthier body composition outcomes.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study support the effectiveness of a multicomponent work-based intervention in reducing sitting time, decreasing prolonged sitting periods, and improving body composition among office workers.
By incorporating standing desks into the workplace, individuals can increase sit-to-stand transitions, promoting a more active and healthier work routine.
To experience the benefits of standing desks, please visit Upstandesk.co.uk, where you can find a wide selection of high-quality standing desks designed to enhance your work environment and improve your overall well-being.
For more detailed information about the study, please visit ‘Take a Stand!-a multi-component intervention aimed at reducing sitting time among office workers-a cluster randomized trial (ovid.com).’