What Do Workers Do to Reduce Their Sitting Time? The Relationships of Strategy Use and Workplace Support With Desk-Based Workers' Behavior Changes in a Workplace-Delivered Sitting-Reduction and Activity-Promoting Intervention

J Occup Environ Med. 2018 Nov;60(11):1026-1033. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000001419.

Abstract

Objective: To explore workers' sitting-reduction and activity-promoting strategy use following an intervention targeting these changes, and whether strategy use and perceived workplace support impacted on 3-month sitting and activity outcomes.

Methods: This secondary analysis in desk-based workers (n = 83) utilized data collected on questionnaire-derived strategy use and workplace support, and activPAL3-derived sitting (total; prolonged, ≥30 minutes) and activity (standing; stepping) at work.

Results: Fourteen strategies were commonly used during the intervention. Increased usage of some strategies were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with beneficial changes in prolonged sitting or stepping only. Workplace support was significantly beneficially associated with changes in sitting, prolonged sitting, and stepping; these associations were largely independent of strategy use changes.

Conclusions: Strategies were highly used, with increased use associated with some behavioral improvements. Workplace support appears essential for improving sitting and activity in the workplace.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accelerometry
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sitting Position*
  • Social Support
  • Standing Position*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Time Factors
  • Walking*
  • Workplace