Standing desks have been a popular choice in many workplaces as a way to combat the negative health effects of sitting for long periods. However, a new study has revealed that standing desks may not be as beneficial as once thought and could even pose health risks. Researchers have found that standing desks do not offset the risks of inactivity and may increase the likelihood of developing conditions such as swollen veins and blood clots in the legs.
The study, which examined data from over 80,000 UK adults, concluded that standing does not lower the risk of diseases like stroke and heart failure, as commonly believed. In fact, spending more than two hours a day on one’s feet could potentially increase the chances of developing circulatory issues such as deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins. The findings, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, emphasised the importance of incorporating regular movement throughout the day for individuals who sit or stand for extended periods.
Dr. Matthew Ahmadi from the University of Sydney cautioned that standing for prolonged periods may not improve cardiovascular health in the long term and could even be risky for circulatory health. The research also highlighted that for every additional 30 minutes spent standing beyond two hours, the risk of circulatory disease rose by 11%. Conversely, sitting for more than 12 hours a day was associated with a 15% increase in the risk of heart disease for each extra hour of sitting.
Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis suggested that incorporating incidental movement and structured exercise into one’s routine could be a more effective approach to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease for individuals who have sedentary lifestyles. The importance of staying active throughout the day was also underscored by Emily McGrath, a senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, who advised aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to mitigate the risk of heart and circulatory diseases.
In conclusion, the study’s findings serve as a reminder that while standing desks have gained popularity in office settings, they may not be a panacea for the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. Incorporating regular movement, structured exercise, and avoiding prolonged periods of both sitting and standing are crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of circulatory issues.