Smart Software Can Increase Sit–Stand Desk Transitions During Active Computer Use

Pankaj Sharma, Adam Pickens, Ranjana Mehta, Gang Han and Mark E. Benden
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Pankaj Sharma: Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Texas A&M University School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77843, USA
Adam Pickens: Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Texas A&M University School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77843, USA
Ranjana Mehta: Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Texas A&M University School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77843, USA
Gang Han: Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Texas A&M University School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77843, USA
Mark E. Benden: Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Texas A&M University School of Public Health, College Station, TX 77843, USA

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 13, 1-9

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.

Keywords: software; office physical activity; sedentary behavior (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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