The global standing desk market is booming and expected to grow $12.6 billion by 2032 (£9.7 billion). These desks are praised as a simple solution to the health risks associated with sitting all day. However, recent research shows that standing may not be the health promoter many were hoping for.
A new study from Australia, involving over 83,000 participants, found that prolonged standing may not improve heart health and may even increase the risk of certain circulatory problems.
Researchers found that standing for long periods did not reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Spending too much time either sitting or standing was linked to a higher risk of problems such as varicose veins and feeling dizzy or light-headed when you stand up.
The expression ‘sitting is the new smoking’ applies become popular in the past decade, highlighting the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting for long periods of time has been associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In response, standing desks emerged as a trendy solution, providing a way to reduce sitting time without drastically changing daily routines.
But was there solid evidence to support the benefits of standing desks?
Much of the enthusiasm was based on limited studies that did not fully assess long-term health consequences. This knowledge gap prompted researchers to conduct further research.
In the new study, participants wore devices to track their sitting, standing and physical activity over several years. This objective measurement provided accurate data, reducing inaccuracies often found in self-reported information. The researchers found that sitting for more than ten hours a day was associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
But simply standing more did not reduce this risk. In fact, standing for long periods of time was linked to an increased risk of circulatory problems.
Standing for long periods of time can cause blood to pool in the legs, which can lead to conditions such as varicose veins.
The study’s large sample size and use of objective data strengthen the reliability of these findings. However, as an observational study, it cannot definitively determine cause and effect. Additionally, the average age of participants was approximately 61 years, which may limit how these results apply to younger people.
Movement is key
These findings suggest that simply replacing sitting with standing is not a perfect solution. Our bodies respond better to regular movements than to static positions, whether sitting or standing.
Incorporating short walks and stretches throughout the day can break long periods of inactivity and exercise significant health benefits.
Workplace interventions that promote exercise have shown promise. Researchers found that office workers reduced their sitting time by adding periods standing and light activity saw improvements in blood sugar levels and other health markers.
Another study showed that alternating between sitting and standing, combined with short walks, was possible more effective for health then stand alone.
Sit-stand desks, designed to allow easy position changes, offer a promising solution. They promote frequent postural changes and can relieve the discomfort associated with prolonged static positions. Some models even have reminders to encourage regular exercise, integrating activity into the workday.
Getting more physical activity into our lives doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple actions like taking the stairs, walking to a colleague instead of emailing, or standing during phone calls can all contribute. Setting a timer to remind you to move every 30 minutes can help you break up long periods of sitting or standing, helping you take control of your health.
Movement is key. Standing all day isn’t necessarily better than sitting; both have drawbacks if overdone. By focusing on regular physical activity and varying our postures, we can better tackle the health problems that a sedentary lifestyle brings. Small changes, such as taking short active breaks or incorporating stretching exercises, can make a change significant difference.
While standing desks offer an alternative to sitting for long periods of time, ultimately they should not be viewed as a complete solution. Embracing a more active lifestyle, both in and out of the office, is likely to yield the greatest health benefits. It’s not just about standing or sitting; it’s about moving more and sitting less.
More information:
Matthew N Ahmadi et al., Device-measured stationary behavior and the incidence of cardiovascular and orthostatic circulatory diseases, International Journal of Epidemiology (2024). DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyae136
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