Efficacy of a multi-component intervention to reduce workplace sedentary behaviour in office workers

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of a work-based multicomponent intervention to reduce office workers’ sitting time. Methods: Offices (n=12; 89 workers) were randomised into an 8-week intervention (n=48) incorporating organisational, individual, and environmental elements or control arm. Sitting time, physical activity and cardiometabolic health were measured at baseline and after the intervention. Results: Linear mixed modelling revealed no significant change in workplace sitting time, but changes in workplace prolonged sitting time (-39 min/shift), sit-upright transitions (7.8 per shift) and stepping time (12 min/shift) at follow-up were observed, in favour of the intervention group (p<0.001). Results for cardiometabolic health markers were mixed. Conclusions: This short multicomponent workplace intervention was successful in reducing prolonged sitting and increasing physical activity in the workplace, although total sitting time was not reduced and the impact on cardiometabolic health was minimal.