Working from home has become the new norm for many Australians, with over 6.7 million people now working remotely at least some of the time. This shift has led to increased sedentary behavior, as many individuals find themselves sitting for long periods without the usual incidental activity that comes with going into a physical workplace.
Research has shown that prolonged sitting can have negative impacts on our health, leading to concerns about the rise in sedentary behavior among remote workers. To combat this issue, some people are turning to under-desk treadmills or walking pads to incorporate physical activity into their workday.
The benefits of walking are well-documented, with studies showing that increasing daily step count can lead to improvements in health outcomes such as blood pressure and glucose tolerance. The World Health Organization now recommends that “every move counts” towards better health, emphasizing the importance of incorporating physical activity into our daily routines.
While there are only a few studies specifically examining the health impacts of treadmill desks, the results have generally been positive. Research has shown that using a treadmill desk can lead to changes in fat loss, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and metabolism, with some studies demonstrating long-term benefits.
However, the feasibility of using a treadmill desk in a work environment, whether at home or in an office, is a common concern. Some studies have found that walking on a treadmill does not significantly impact cognitive abilities, but it may affect typing accuracy and mouse precision for certain tasks.
Before investing in a treadmill desk, it’s essential to consider whether it would be more practical and cost-effective to simply incorporate regular walking breaks into your routine. Small changes in physical activity can have a significant impact on health, especially for those who lead sedentary lifestyles.
Overall, treadmill desks can be a valuable tool for increasing physical activity and combatting the negative effects of prolonged sitting. However, it’s essential to weigh the costs and practicality of such a setup before making a decision. Regular movement and physical activity, whether through walking breaks or other forms of exercise, are crucial for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
