Abstract
The objective use of table top adjustable sit–stand desks has yet to be determined, due to the lack of an effective digital evaluation method. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of computer prompt software on table top sit–stand desks to determine if there was a difference in the frequency of desk position changes. This five month, pre-post pilot study on 47 university staff members used a novel USB accelerometer sensor and computer software reminders to continuously record and prompt increases in desk usage to promote physical activity at the workstation. During the baseline phase (3 months), desk usage data were continuously recorded for all workers. Following the baseline, the results from a two-month intervention of personalized computer reminders doubled the number of desk position changes per work day from 1 desk position change every 2 work days to 1 change every work day. Furthermore, those who changed desk positions once or twice a day increased from 4% to 36% from baseline to intervention. Overall, the intervention was encouraging, but longer intervention studies are warranted to determine if the desk usage behavior change can be improved and sustained for years and whether that change results in health gains.
Highlights
The increase in technological developments in buildings have allowed humans to expend less energy, and this has contributed to the workplace obesity epidemic [1]
Prolonged standing periods have been associated with lower back discomfort [4], carotid atherosclerosis [5], varicose veins [6], and muscle fatigue [7]
In our other studies using software to monitor electric sit–stand table use, we found 8–15% of the shift being used in a standing position with on average only 1 desk transition from a sit to a stand position per shift
Summary
The increase in technological developments in buildings have allowed humans to expend less energy, and this has contributed to the workplace obesity epidemic [1]. Traditional office buildings have been designed in the direction of “human energy conservation”, including conveniently located elevators along with many sitting options [1]. Standing for too long can be detrimental to health. Prolonged standing periods have been associated with lower back discomfort [4], carotid atherosclerosis [5], varicose veins [6], and muscle fatigue [7]. Activity-permissive workstations allow people to change postures between sitting and standing and are being incorporated into the workplace to reduce workers’ sedentary behavior and improve associated health outcomes [8]
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