This study was designed to understand how the use of a standing desk would affect the cognitive function and motor skills of obese subjects.https://digitalcommons.gardner-webb.edu/exercise-science-research-proposal-posters/1067/thumbnail.jp

Wright, Lindsey

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The Effect of Standing-Desks on Productivity in Obese PopulationsLindsey WrightGardner-Webb UniversityHypothesis: The researcher hypothesized that standing desks will have no significant effects on motor skills and a positive effect on cognitive functions.AcknowledgementsMethodsPotential ImplicationsAbstractReview of LitSedentary behaviors can have negative health effects even if suggested activity recommendations have been met. Many people sit for a majority of the day, especially at work. Several studies have been conducted on the effects of the standing desk on cognitive function and motor skills in a healthy population, but none on the obese population. This study was designed to understand how the use of a standing desk would affect the cognitive function and motor skills of obese subjects. As the obesity epidemic is increasing, many people in the workforce fall into the obesity category. The subjects were asked to stand for 1.5 hours before testing began to mimic the suggested time to use a standing desk during the day. The results were compared to the results when the subjects were sitting. They were then analyzed to see how standing affected cognitive function and motor skills. Operational DefinitionsObesity: ○ Sedentary individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 - 35 kg/m2○ Two-thirds of Americans are either overweight or obese○ Occurs when the body does not regulate energy intake, energy expenditure and energy storage correctlyPhysical Activity:○ Produces a decline in energy expended, but also declines resting metabolic rate and the thermic effect of foodSedentary Behavior:○ Any waking behavior that involves less than 1.5 METS while in a sitting or reclining positionMotor Skills:○ Movements of bone structures  ○ Was tested by assessing mouse proficiency and typing speed Cognitive function:○ Means of acquiring information○ Was tested by assessing the performance on a practice GRE as well as the Stroop Color and Word TestThe largest limitation found in prior research was the amount of time the study was conducted. The present study will analyze if standing for the recommended 2-4 hours (John et al., 2009), has an effect on cognitive function and motor skills. If the hypothesis is supported, this study can be used to formulate a plan to integrate standing-desks into everyday work. By doing so, the risks involved with sitting can be minimized and cognitive function will improve. This research will be beneficial to employers and employees, as health will be increased which will decrease the cost of health insurance.The researcher would like to thank Dr. Hartman, Karlee Moore, & Savannah Hollifield for the time spent to review, advise, assist and encourage throughout the study. This research would not be possible without them and all of their support.ReferencesChau, J. Y., Sukala, W., Fedel, K., Do, A., Engelen, L., Kingham, M., . . . Bauman, A. E. (2016). More standing and just as productive: Effects of a sit-stand desk intervention on call center workers’ sitting, standing, and productivity at work in the Opt to Stand pilot study. Preventive Medicine Reports,3, 68-74. doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2015.12.003Finch, L., Tomiyama, A., & Ward, A. (2017). Taking a Stand: The Effects of Standing Desks on Task Performance and Engagement. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,14(8), 939. doi:10.3390/ijerph14080939John, D., Bassett, D. R., Thompson, D. L., Fairbrother, J. T., & Baldwin, D. R. (2008). Effect of Using a Treadmill Workstation on the Performance of Simulated Office Work Tasks. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise,40(Supplement). doi:10.1249/01.mss.0000322578.88389.bdReiff, C., Marlatt, K., & Dengel, D. R. (2012). Difference in Caloric Expenditure in Sitting versus Standing Desks. Journal of Physical Activity and Health,9(7), 1009-1011. doi:10.1123/jpah.9.7.1009

The Effect of Standing-Desks on Productivity in Obese Populations

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The Effect of Standing-Desks on Productivity in Obese Populations

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