What if You Let Them Stand? A 2-Year Follow-up on Sit-Stand Desk.

Abstract

Excessive sitting time is linked to adverse health outcomes, with sit-stand desk (SSD) emerging as effective workplace interventions. However, evidence on long-term impact is scarce. This study evaluates the effects of SSD on physical behaviors after 18 and 24 months. Ten office workers were analyzed: five after 18 months (G-18 m) and five after 24 months (G-24 m) of SSD usage. Physical behaviors, which are sitting, standing, stepping, and sit-to-stand transitions, were objectively measured using activPAL pre- and post-SSD implementation. Significant reductions in workplace sitting time were observed: G-18 m (-78.32 minutes, P = 0.019) and G-24 m (-84.36 minutes, P < 0.001). Both groups increased standing and stepping during work hours. No changes occurred during leisure time ( P > 0.05). SSD use was associated with sustained reductions in workplace sitting time over 24 months, suggesting a potential role in long-term health promotion. These findings support SSD adoption and emphasize the need for larger-scale studies.