Using mixed-method feasibility studies to examine the impact of a mobile standing desk on undergraduates' sedentary time

Abstract

Objectives: To understand experiences with and measure the effect of mobile standing desks (MSD) on undergraduates' sedentary time (ST).

Participants: Two samples of full-time undergraduates in Fall 2018.

Methods: Study 1 (n = 21): baseline average daily ST was measured via activPAL4^TM inclinometers and the NIGHTLY-WEEK-U questionnaire for 7 days. Participants received a MSD for one week then intervention ST was calculated. Study 2 (n = 28): baseline ST was measured with an online NIGHTLY-WEEK-U questionnaire, participants received a MSD for one month, then intervention ST was calculated. Paired-sample t-tests assessed differences. Interviews/online questions explored experiences.

Results: Study 1: objectively measured (p = .0045, d = .71) and self-report (p = .0005, d = .92) ST reduced significantly post-intervention. Study 2: ST reduced significantly post-intervention (p = < .0001, d = .98). Facilitators and barriers to desk usage were described.

Conclusions: MSD were effective for reducing undergraduates' ST across one-week and one-month.

Keywords: Sedentary; standing desk; student; university.