A recent study has shown that standing for extended periods at work can negatively affect the participants’ blood pressure over a 24-hour period. On the other hand, those who spent more time sitting during work hours experienced better blood pressure levels. This research indicates that the type of physical activity performed during work may be more impactful on blood pressure than physical activities done in leisure time.
A Finnish study found that prolonged standing at work had a negative impact on the research participants’ 24-hour blood pressure. In contrast, spending more time sitting at work was associated with better blood pressure. The study suggests that activity behavior during working hours may be more relevant to 24-hour blood pressure than recreational physical activity.
Engaging in regular physical activity plays a crucial role in managing blood pressure levels. While intense aerobic exercises are particularly effective for reducing blood pressure, everyday physical tasks can also contribute positively. Previous research has indicated that physical activity during leisure time tends to benefit cardiovascular health more significantly than work-related physical endeavors, which can sometimes even harm health.
24-hour blood pressure is vital for heart health
In the Finnish Retirement and Aging study (FIREA) conducted at the University of Turku, researchers assessed the physical activity of municipal employees nearing retirement by using accelerometers worn on the thigh. These devices measured activity levels during work hours, leisure time, and days off. Participants also utilized a portable blood pressure monitor that recorded their blood pressure every 30 minutes for a full day.
“Instead of focusing on a single moment, 24-hour blood pressure provides a clearer picture of how blood pressure impacts the heart and blood vessels throughout the day and night. Sustained elevated blood pressure during the day that doesn’t adequately decrease at night can lead to stiffness in blood vessels, forcing the heart to work harder due to increased pressure. This can result in cardiovascular issues over time,” explains Doctoral Researcher Jooa Norha.
Consider taking breaks from standing at work
The new findings support earlier research that indicates work-related physical activity may be detrimental to heart and circulatory health. Extended periods of standing can elevate blood pressure as the body compensates by constricting blood vessels and enhancing heart pumping to improve circulation to the legs.
“Using a standing desk can offer an alternative to sitting at a desk, but prolonged standing can have adverse effects. It’s advisable to take breaks from standing throughout the workday, whether by walking every half hour or spending some time seated during the day,” Norha recommends.
Recreational physical activity is also beneficial
Furthermore, the study’s results indicate that simply being sedentary at work is not necessarily harmful to blood pressure levels. Researchers emphasize the significance of engaging in recreational physical activities for both office workers and those in labor-intensive jobs.
“It’s important to understand that being physically active at work isn’t sufficient by itself. Participating in various forms of exercise during leisure time is crucial for maintaining fitness, making the challenges of work easier to handle. Likewise, employees with mainly sedentary roles should prioritize getting adequate exercise outside of work,” Norha emphasizes.
