1
|
Odhiambo LA, Marion AJ, Harmatz AE, Yala JA, Callihan TR, Bundy K, Zullo MD. Facilitators and barriers to using a DeskCycle as a sedentary behavior intervention in the work environment. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299537. [PMID: 38483888 PMCID: PMC10939269 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sedentary behavior is a public health threat with extensive health burden on society. High levels of sedentary behavior have been associated with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Individuals working in desk-related occupations are more likely to be sedentary for most of the day. Health researchers have responded by implementing and promoting interventions and wellness programs in work environments to reduce this behavior. This study examined the feasibility and experience of using the DeskCycle to reduce sedentary behavior among female workers in an academic office environment. METHODS This was an intervention study where participants used the DeskCycle in two consecutive eight-week phases and uploaded DeskCycle use data daily. A questionnaire was administered after week 2 and week 8 (pre-post) of DeskCycle use in each phase to assess dimensions of feasibility, including an open-ended question for user experience. RESULTS The participants (N = 78) had an average age of 44.4 (±11.3) years and were primarily non-Hispanic White (88.5%). DeskCycle daily use varied from Phase I: 84% to 64.9% (weeks 1-7), and 49.4% in week 8, to Phase II: 73.5% to 52.2% (week 1-7), and 40.2% in week 8. In Phase I, 96.6% (week 2) and 87% (week 8) agreed that the DeskCycle decreased sedentary behavior, and in Phase II, 74.3% (week 2) and 76.9% (week 8) agreed. The analysis of open-ended responses found challenges with the desk set up, cycling interfering with typing, and thinking critically, as barriers to DeskCycle use, while enjoying cycling and cycling improving mood were reported as facilitators. CONCLUSIONS Using a DeskCycle in an academic office environment to reduce sedentary behavior is feasible in female office workers. Consideration should be given to the type of tasks performed while cycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorriane A. Odhiambo
- Department of Biostatistics, Data Science and Epidemiology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States of America
| | - Alexander J. Marion
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States of America
| | - Alison E. Harmatz
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States of America
| | - Joy A. Yala
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States of America
| | - Thomas R. Callihan
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States of America
| | - Kristina Bundy
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States of America
| | - Melissa D. Zullo
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dupont F, Arabi Kugathasan T, Reid RER, Mathieu ME. Active time at work following the introduction of a standing and a cycling workstation into worker's office space. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2024; 30:161-167. [PMID: 37975262 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2023.2284012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Objectives. Active workstations have been proposed to counteract sedentary behavior at work. This study describes office workers' use of and perceptions toward standing and cycling workstations, and assesses whether the two active workstations were sufficient to break sitting time and replace it with 2-4 h of light activity per workday. Methods. This mixed-method study utilized video recording, semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire. The quantitative data covered time spent sitting, standing and on a cycling workstation. The qualitative data were analyzed based on preferences, barriers and facilitators. Results. Participants (n = 15) used active workstations 125.3 (74.5) min/day and spent 79.0 (63.6) min/day using standing versus 46.3 (47.6) min/day using cycling workstations (p = 0.153, d = 0.58). Following the interviews, the standing workstation was preferred over cycling. The ergonomics of the cycling workstation were not optimal and caused discomfort in use. Seven participants broke their sitting time and accumulated 2+ h of light physical activity per workday. Those participants meeting recommendations were older, had a higher body fat percentage and engaged in less physical activity per week. Conclusion. With a preference for standing workstations, our results showed that 47% of workers used standing and cycling workstations to accumulate 2+ h of active time per day.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ryan E R Reid
- Department of Computer Science, Saint Francis Xavier University, Canada
| | - Marie-Eve Mathieu
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Canada
- Research Center, Sainte-Justine University Hospital Center, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Odhiambo LA, Marion AJ, Callihan TR, Harmatz AE, Yala JA, Bundy K, Zullo MD. The Effectiveness of the DeskCycle in Reducing Sedentary Behavior Among Female Office Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:e538-e544. [PMID: 37167959 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of the DeskCycle in reducing sedentary behavior among female office workers at an educational institution. METHODS This was a randomized control trial with a crossover design (N = 80). The intervention was conducted in two 8-week phases and included the DeskCycle and an informational handout with benefits and suggestions about the frequency of use. The primary outcome was weekly average nonsedentary time. Secondary outcomes included weight and mood. RESULTS DeskCycle users reported significantly higher weekly average nonsedentary time compared with nonusers (phase I: 402.3 ± 72.4 vs 169.3 ± 17.5, P < 0.00; phase II: 282 ± 45 vs 216 ± 23, P = 0.00). There were no significant differences in weight or mood. CONCLUSIONS The DeskCycle is effective in reducing sedentary behavior, suggesting workers in sedentary office occupations could integrate it into their workday, where possible, to prevent negative health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorriane A Odhiambo
- From the Institute of Public and Preventive Health, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (L.A.O.); Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (A.J.M.); and College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio (T.R.C., A.E.H., J.A.Y., K.B., M.D.Z.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Preliminary investigation of the effects of sitting with and without short active breaks on muscle stiffness assessed with shear-wave elastography. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-023-01051-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this preliminary study was to compare the effects of 1-h sitting with and without short active breaks on muscle stiffness as measured by shear-wave elastography (SWE).
Methods
The participants (7 females, 3 males; age: 24.9 ± 1.2 years) completed two (with and without active breaks) 1-h sitting exposures on separate days. Active breaks (2–3 min) were performed at 20 min and 40 min time marks and comprised simple stretching and activation exercises. Before, during (30 min) and after (1 h) of sitting, shear modulus of upper trapezius, lumbar region of erector spinae and rectus femoris muscles was measured with SWE.
Results
Statistically significant effects of sitting exposure in erector spinae muscle stiffness were noted (p = 0.041; η2 = 0.38). There were no other statistically significant effects of sitting exposure or condition (with/without breaks).
Conclusions
Although few statistically significant effects were detected, the trends in this preliminary trial suggest that prolonged sitting increases muscle stiffness and warrants further investigation of short active breaks with larger sample sizes.
Collapse
|
5
|
De Carvalho D, Callaghan JP. Does a break from sitting change biomechanical outcome measures or transient pain? A laboratory-based experimental study. Work 2023:WOR211266. [PMID: 36641712 DOI: 10.3233/wor-211266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sitting can induce transient low back pain (LBP) in healthy individuals. A rest from sitting should provide relief, however, the parameters of breaks (activity type, intensity, duration, and timing) are not currently known. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of 2-minute walking breaks at 40-minute intervals on sitting-induced LBP. METHODS Thirty-two healthy participants were recruited for a within-control study: two randomly presented sessions of sitting for 2 hours with and without breaks. Outcome measures were compared between condition and pain group using a three-way ANOVA with significance atp > 0.05. RESULTS Walking breaks at 40-minute intervals result in significantly lower pain ratings than those taken immediately before the break for sitting-induced back pain developers. However, this relief is short lived (<10 minutes), with ratings increasing to pre-break levels once the sitting exposure resumes. There were no differences in biomechanical factors between sessions. Regardless of session type, pain developers displayed higher spine fidget frequency than non-pain developers, females sat with less spine flexion, with greater gluteal activation levels, and with their center of pressure approximately half a centimeter to the left and forward compared to males, and males had significantly greater peak pressures over a smaller area compared to females. CONCLUSION Walking breaks at 40-minute intervals provide significant, but temporary, relief of sitting-induced back pain for pain developers. Future work should optimize break parameters and examine the longer-term benefit of breaks, especially for individuals that are not able to tolerate sitting for extended durations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D De Carvalho
- Faculty of Medicine,Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - J P Callaghan
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences,University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lam H, Bergquist C, Lee C, McMullen J. Exploring the use of an under-desk leg swing device during employee aptitude testing and implications on work performance and productivity. Work 2023:WOR211375. [PMID: 36641713 DOI: 10.3233/wor-211375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As modern occupations become more sedentary, desk-bound workers are more at risk of chronic diseases. Active workstations have gained popularity in the workplace, but there remain concerns about their impact on cognitive function. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the use of a novel under-desk leg swing device on cognitive ability in the workplace compared to sitting. METHODS Cognitive ability was measured using a pre-employment aptitude test (CCAT), and perceived outcomes were analyzed via self-report questionnaires. Using a randomized, repeated measures crossover design, 18 undergraduate students undertook the CCAT while using the under-desk leg swing device and while sitting only (Experiment 1). 9 students returned two to three weeks later to repeat testing (Experiment 2). RESULTS In Experiment 1, CCAT scores did not differ significantly between the under-desk leg swing device and sitting (mean difference (MD) = -1.056, standard error (SE) = 1.302,p = 0.429, d = -0.16). Effect sizes of 0.554 were observed for perceived alertness, 0.446 for attention, 0.446 for focus, and 0.564 for enjoyment, but there were no significant differences between the two conditions. CCAT scores were significantly higher in Experiment 2 than in Experiment 1 (MD = 8.444, SE = 2.410,p = 0.008, d = 1.64). CONCLUSION Based on Experiment 1, the findings suggest that the use of the under-desk leg swing device promotes movement without detriment to neither workflow nor cognitive ability relevant to employee aptitude compared to sitting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carter Bergquist
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA,USA
| | - Collette Lee
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA,USA
| | - Jared McMullen
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA,USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Metz L, Guirado T, Beaulieu K, Pereira B, Brun C, Coutarel F, Duclos M, Thivel D. Cognitive work on a walking desk does not lead to compensatory appetitive responses in healthy young adults. Physiol Behav 2023; 258:114008. [PMID: 36341834 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.114008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT In addition to the low energy expenditure induced by sedentary behaviors such as sitting, it has been shown that intense cognitive work can lead to an increase in food intake. Walking Desk provide the opportunity for office workers to replace prolonged sitting at work with light intensity physical activity. OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of sitting vs standing vs walking during a cognitive task on energy intake, appetite sensations, food reward and overall energy balance. METHODS Fifteen normal weight (BMI: 24.1 ± 1.2 kg m-2) young men (23.4 ± 2.1 years) randomly performed three conditions: sitting desk (SitD), standing desk (StD) and walking desk (WD), while performing a 45-min cognitive task. Energy expenditure was measured by indirect calorimetry, regular appetite sensations were assessed using visual analogue scales, energy intake measured during an ad libitum meal and the relative energy intake calculated. Pre and post-test meal food reward was evaluated through the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire. RESULTS Relative energy intake decreased by 150 kcal in WD compared with SitD, however it did not reach statistical significance. There were no differences in appetite sensations nor food reward between the three conditions. Energy expenditure was significantly higher in WD (141.8 ± 13 kcal) than in SitD (78.7 ± 5 8 kcal) and StD (85.9 ± 8 kcal) (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION Walking desk use can decrease sedentary time while working without any appetitive compensation. The small reduction in energy balance with walking while working could induce significant health benefits if repeated over time. Future longer studies need to clarify whether active desks can contribute to the prevention or management of weight gain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lore Metz
- Laboratory of the Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions, (AME2P), Clermont Auvergne University, 63170 Aubiere CEDEX, France; Auvergne Research Center for Human Nutrition (CRNH), 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - Terry Guirado
- Laboratory of the Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions, (AME2P), Clermont Auvergne University, 63170 Aubiere CEDEX, France; Auvergne Research Center for Human Nutrition (CRNH), 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; INRA, UMR 1019, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Kristine Beaulieu
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Unit of Biostatistics (DRCI), Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Carole Brun
- Laboratory of the Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions, (AME2P), Clermont Auvergne University, 63170 Aubiere CEDEX, France; Auvergne Research Center for Human Nutrition (CRNH), 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Fabien Coutarel
- Laboratory ACTé Clermont Auvergne University, 63407 Chamalières Cedex, France
| | - Martine Duclos
- INRA, UMR 1019, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Department of Sport Medicine and Functional Explorations, Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital, G. Montpied Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - David Thivel
- Laboratory of the Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise under Physiological and Pathological Conditions, (AME2P), Clermont Auvergne University, 63170 Aubiere CEDEX, France; Auvergne Research Center for Human Nutrition (CRNH), 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Oye-Somefun A, Azizi Z, Ardern CI, Rotondi MA. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of treadmill desks on energy expenditure, sitting time and cardiometabolic health in adults. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2082. [PMID: 34774020 PMCID: PMC8590128 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12094-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As the health risks of sedentary working environments become more clear, greater emphasis on the implementation of walking interventions to reduce sitting time is needed. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we investigate the role of treadmill-desk interventions on energy expenditure, sitting time, and cardiometabolic health in adults with sedentary occupations. Methods Relevant studies published in English were identified using CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases up to December 2020. Random effects meta-analysis models were used to pool study results. Results Thirteen relevant studies (six workplaces and seven laboratories) were found with a total of 351 participants. Pooled analysis of laboratory studies showed a significant increase in energy expenditure (105.23 kcal per hour, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 90.41 to 120.4), as well as metabolic rate (5.0 mL/kg/min, 95% CI: 3.35 to 6.64), among treadmill desk users compared to sitting conditions. No evidence of significant differences in blood pressure were found. In workplace studies, we observed a significant reduction in sitting time over a 24-h period (− 1.73 min per hour, 95% CI: − 3.3 to − 0.17) among users of treadmill desks, compared to a conventional desk. However, there were no evidence of statistically significant changes in other metabolic outcomes. Conclusions Treadmill desks offer a feasible and effective intervention to increase energy expenditure and metabolic rate and reduce sitting time while performing work-related tasks. Future studies are needed to increase generalizability to different workplace settings and further evaluate their impact on cardiometabolic health. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-12094-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akinkunle Oye-Somefun
- 222A Bethune College, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.
| | - Zahra Azizi
- McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), 5252 De Maisonneuve Blvd, Montréal, QC, H4A 3S5, Canada
| | - Chris I Ardern
- 344 Bethune College, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Michael A Rotondi
- 364 Bethune College, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nicolson GH, Hayes CB, Darker CD. A Cluster-Randomised Crossover Pilot Feasibility Study of a Multicomponent Intervention to Reduce Occupational Sedentary Behaviour in Professional Male Employees. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9292. [PMID: 34501882 PMCID: PMC8431104 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Professional male office employees have been identified as those most at risk of prolonged sedentary time, which is associated with many long-term adverse health conditions. The aim of the study was to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a gender-sensitive multicomponent intervention, guided by the socio-ecological model, to reduce occupational sedentary behaviour by increasing physical activity in professional men. The main elements of the intervention comprised: a Garmin watch with associated web-based platform/smartphone application, an under-desk pedal machine, and management participation and support. A cluster-randomised crossover pilot feasibility trial recruiting professional males was conducted in two workplaces. Mixed methods were used to assess the primary outcomes of recruitment, retention, and acceptability and feasibility of the intervention. Secondary outcomes included objectively measured sedentary behaviour, standing and physical activity. Focus groups were used to explore the acceptability of the intervention in a real-world setting. Twenty-two participants were recruited (mean age 42.9 years (SD 11.0)). Recruitment and retention rates were 73.3% and 95%, respectively. Overall, participants found the intervention acceptable and feasible, and expressed enjoyment of the intervention, however desk set-up issues with the pedal devices were noted. The manual recording of the pedalling bouts was overly burdensome. Preliminary data indicate that the intervention may reduce occupational sedentary behaviour and increase physical activity. This intervention should be further tested in a definitive trial following consideration of the findings of this pilot feasibility trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gail Helena Nicolson
- Public Health & Primary Care, Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin, Russell Centre, Tallaght Cross, D24 DH74 Dublin, Ireland; (C.B.H.); (C.D.D.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dieterich AV, Müller AM, Akksilp K, K C S, Dabak SV, Rouyard T. Reducing sedentary behaviour and physical inactivity in the workplace: protocol for a review of systematic reviews. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2020; 6:e000909. [PMID: 33324487 PMCID: PMC7722375 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2020-000909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Increasing rates of urbanisation have been accompanied by higher levels of sedentary behaviour (SB) and reduced physical activity (PA) worldwide. While physical inactivity has long been identified as a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality, increased concerns about the detrimental associations between SB and health has led to the development of many interventions aimed at reducing SB and/or promoting PA. Due to the prominence of sedentary time spent at work, the workplace has been identified as a key setting to implement such interventions. Building an evidence base of effective strategies to reduce SB and/or promote PA at work is needed to help reduce the health risks faced by many employees. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We aim to conduct a review of reviews (RoR) to identify, evaluate and synthesise all systematic reviews (SRs) of workplace interventions aimed at reducing SB and/or promoting PA among adults. Systematic searches for relevant SRs will be conducted in six databases: Cochrane Systematic Review Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature through EBSCOhost, EMBASE, PubMed including MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science. Selection for final inclusion and data extraction will be performed by two independent reviewers. SRs will be included if they assessed interventions aimed at reducing SB or promoting PA in the workplace, and if they report on changes in the respective behavioural outcomes in the occupational domain. DISCUSSION This RoR will be valuable to policy-makers and employers who are looking for strategies to promote health at work. This will also allow potential research gaps to be identified, so that the design of future studies can be better informed. TRIAL REGISTERATION This study has been registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number CRD42020171774).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andre Matthias Müller
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Sport & Exercise Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Katika Akksilp
- Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program, Mueang Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Sarin K C
- Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program, Mueang Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | | | - Thomas Rouyard
- Research Center for Health Policy and Economics, Hitotsubashi University, Kunitachi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Does type of active workstation matter? A randomized comparison of cognitive and typing performance between rest, cycling, and treadmill active workstations. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237348. [PMID: 32764818 PMCID: PMC7413476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Active workstations are associated with improved health outcomes, but differences in cognitive and typing outcomes between the types of active workstations are unclear. We addressed two main questions: (1) Are there differences in cognitive and typing performance between seated and active workstations? (2) Are there differences in cognitive and typing performance between cycling and treadmill workstations, specifically? Participants included 137 healthy young adults (74 female, mean age = 20.8 years) who completed two sessions. At session one (baseline), all participants completed cognitive and typing tests including the Rey-Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, a typing test, and a flanker task while sitting at rest. At session two, participants were randomized to an active workstation group (treadmill or cycling desk) during which they performed the tests listed above in a randomized fashion, using alternate versions when available. Participants showed significantly better attention and cognitive control scores during the active session as compared to the seated session, but worse verbal memory scores during the active session. Participants were faster and more accurate at typing during the active session relative to the seated session. There were no significant differences between cycling or treadmill workstations on any cognitive or typing outcomes. Improvements during active sessions may be influenced by practice effects, although alternate forms were used when possible. We conclude that active workstations do not seem to largely impact cognitive abilities, with the exception of a slight decrease in verbal memory performance. Findings suggest active workstations, whether walking or cycling, are useful to improve physical activity, particularly when completing tasks that do not require verbal memory recall.
Collapse
|