Study Shows Active Workstations Can Prevent Diseases and Improve Cognitive Function
Workstations that encourage movement, such as standing, walking, or stepping, are effective in combatting the negative effects of prolonged sitting.
Office workers striving to stay physically active now have a new tool at their disposal.
According to the study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association on April 4, prolonged sedentary behavior poses a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, adverse health outcomes, and premature mortality, even among individuals engaging in regular physical activity.
Individuals who spend extended periods sitting during workdays have a higher vulnerability to cardiovascular disease, other health issues, and a shortened lifespan, as per the researchers. They examined the impact of three types of workstations on 44 healthy adults (28 men and 16 women) to determine the efficacy of active workstations in enhancing fine motor skills and neurocognitive functions like concentration and information processing.
Beneficial Effects on Overall Health
Active workstations are beneficial because contracting muscles facilitates blood circulation throughout the body, benefiting the cardiovascular system, explained Dr. Amy Beard, a certified functional medicine practitioner and medical doctor, in an interview with The Epoch Times.
“Improving the cardiovascular system has positive implications for overall bodily functions,” Dr. Beard emphasized. “Active workstations can enhance cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain’s micro-circulation. This boost in blood flow enhances brain oxygenation, resulting in better cognitive function.”
Standing, walking, or stepping during work hours can also alleviate a common health issue.
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“Sitting for prolonged periods can contribute to back pain,” Dr. Beard noted, highlighting that sitting for eight continuous hours can lead to various health issues. “I’ve witnessed this in my patients and experienced it myself. Previously, as a busy ER doctor, I was on my feet a lot, but now, sitting for consultations has caused me back pain that I never had before.”
Reducing Stress and Obesity with Increased Movement
The Mayo Clinic researchers noted that with office workers spending an average of 8.8 hours per day, work environments play a crucial role in minimizing sedentary behaviors. Sedentary behavior has a correlation with obesity, with obese individuals spending approximately 2.5 additional hours seated per day.
Dr. Beard suggested that active workstations could aid in tackling weight-related issues, especially in light of their connection to stress and anxiety.
“Not only does movement benefit the body from various physiological perspectives, but it can also alleviate stress,” she explained. “Moving helps relieve stress by promoting deep breathing and increased oxygen flow to the brain. This halts the stress response triggered by shallow breathing.
“Sitting for extended periods impedes deep breathing and can stress the body by restricting oxygen intake. Stress plays a significant role in obesity and weight problems. Moving your body increases blood circulation, oxygenates tissues, and supports several physiological processes. It benefits mitochondria—the cell powerhouses—among other functions related to weight management.”
