Research Design Connection: Sit-Stand Desks – Research Review

by Sally Augustin, Ph.D. | June 17th, 2019

Chambers, Robertson and Baker reviewed published studies of the various effects of using sit-stand desks (SSDs). They integrated research findings related to “behavior (e.g. time sitting and standing), physiological, work performance, psychological, discomfort, and posture…We conclude that SSDs effectively change behaviors, but these changes only mildly effect health outcomes. SSDs seem most effective for discomfort and least for productivity…Twenty-one of the studies included productivity outcomes, and only 8% found significant differences between sitting and standing or sitting and combination of sitting and standing. Four of the studies with significant differences in productivity reported that standing was superior to sitting…while two favored sitting…Additionally, others have found that standing did not reduce performance and resulted in improved mouse function…modest cardiometabolic health benefits were noted when using SSDs. Generally, SSDs did not reduce work performance or improve psychological health. SSDs were most effective at reducing discomfort.” April Chambers, Michelle Robertson, and Nancy Baker. …