Standing desks have gained popularity as a way to reduce the health risks linked to prolonged sitting at work, but new research suggests that standing for extended periods may not be entirely beneficial. A recent study warns that staying on your feet too long without breaks could negatively affect blood pressure.
In a recent study, researchers from the University of Turku used thigh-worn accelerometers to monitor the physical activity of 156 employees approaching retirement age. Their blood pressure was tracked using a portable device that measured it every 30 minutes over 24 hours. Using activity trackers, researchers recorded the participants' standing time, light and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior during work hours, leisure time, and non-workdays.
