Feasibility and Pilot Outcomes of the Move More @ Work Intervention Designed to Encourage Employees to be Physically Active for 2 Minutes After Every 30 Minutes of Sitting

J Occup Environ Med. 2023 Nov 1;65(11):905-917. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002920. Epub 2023 Jun 28.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of a workplace intervention supporting employees to interrupt sitting time with short bouts of activity (termed an opportunity to move [OTM]).

Methods: Using an interrupted time series design, 58 sedentary employees provided baseline assessments of physical activity, health, and work-related outcomes and completed the 12-week intervention. Assessments were repeated immediately and 12 weeks after intervention. Focus groups explored intervention acceptability.

Results: Accelerometer data showed no change in the number of OTMs taken before to after intervention, while participants self-reported 62-69% intervention adherence. Physical activity at work, productivity, and musculoskeletal health improved but cardiometabolic health and psychological well-being did not. Intervention components were viewed favorably (pending amendments), but taking an OTM every 30 minutes was not feasible.

Conclusions: The Move More @ Work intervention has potential, but adaptations are required to increase adherence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Exercise
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • Posture*
  • Self Report
  • Workplace*