A Finnish study from the University of Turku has revealed that prolonged standing at work negatively affects 24-hour blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues. In contrast, more time spent sitting at work was associated with better blood pressure levels, emphasizing the importance of balanced activity during working hours.
The research was part of the Finnish Retirement and Aging study (FIREA), which focused on municipal employees nearing retirement. Participants wore thigh-mounted accelerometers to measure physical activity across working hours, leisure time, and days off. Additionally, a portable blood pressure monitor recorded their blood pressure every 30 minutes over a 24-hour period. The results indicated that continuous standing led to higher blood pressure as the body compensated by increasing circulation to the lower limbs through blood vessel constriction and heart activity.
Doctoral Researcher Jooa Norha highlighted the significance of 24-hour blood pressure as a comprehensive measure of cardiovascular stress, stating, “If blood pressure remains slightly elevated throughout the day and doesn’t drop sufficiently at night, it can lead to vascular stiffening and increased cardiac workload, eventually resulting in cardiovascular disease.”
While standing desks offer variety in work postures, excessive standing can be detrimental. Norha recommends incorporating movement, such as walking every 30 minutes or alternating between sitting and standing, to reduce the cardiovascular strain associated with prolonged standing.
The study also affirmed that sedentary work is not inherently harmful to blood pressure but underscored the importance of recreational physical activity for all workers. Regular exercise, particularly vigorous aerobic activity, is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, regardless of whether the job involves sitting or physical labor. Leisure-time exercise supports overall fitness, making work-related physical demands more manageable and improving long-term health outcomes.
This research reinforces the idea that balancing activity types during work and leisure is crucial for heart health, advocating for a mindful approach to workplace postures and physical activity habits.
