Recent surveys estimate that more than 6.7 million Australians—almost half of all workers, with a significant concentration in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra—work from home at least part-time. This shift in work dynamics has led to increased periods of sitting, a habit now widely recognized as detrimental to our health. The convenience of transitioning from a home office to a living room couch has become all too familiar.
In contrast, commuting to a physical workplace naturally incorporates movement into our daily routines, from walking to public transport to moving around the office. With many Australians falling short of recommended physical activity levels, the question arises: could under desk treadmills or walking pads offer a viable solution for integrating more movement into our workdays?
The Health Benefits of Walking
The advantages of walking are well-documented. Studies have consistently shown that increasing weekly walking can significantly improve health outcomes, such as blood pressure and glucose tolerance. Recent evidence suggests aiming for 7,000 steps daily as a target for disease prevention.
The World Health Organization has updated its guidelines, emphasizing that “every move counts,” regardless of duration. This aligns with recent findings that short, frequent walking or squatting breaks can yield better health outcomes than a single prolonged walking session. Thus, incorporating a treadmill into your workspace could encourage regular walking breaks, enhancing health without requiring structured exercise routines.
Research on Treadmill Desks
While research on treadmill desks is limited, existing studies indicate positive outcomes. These studies have reported benefits such as fat loss, improved cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and metabolism. However, results can vary:
- One study found sedentary office workers increased their daily steps by 1,600 to 4,500, with the most significant weight loss observed in individuals with obesity.
- A study involving overweight and obese physicians showed a 1.9% reduction in body fat when using a treadmill desk.
- Another study noted an increase of 43 minutes of light walking, although participants found it challenging to balance this with demanding work schedules.
Despite these variations, even small changes can positively impact health, particularly when maintained over time.
Practical Considerations
Integrating treadmill desks into workspaces, whether at home or in an office, raises questions about their practicality. Concerns often center around the ability to focus on tasks while walking. Interestingly, research indicates no significant cognitive differences between sitting and walking at a self-selected pace on a treadmill.
However, walking and cycling desks may impair typing and precise mouse movements, making them less suitable for tasks requiring intensive mouse use. For those struggling with typing accuracy while walking, voice-to-text options available in operating systems like Apple and Chromebook may offer a solution.
Cost and Alternatives
While treadmill desks can significantly enhance health by increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior, they come with a financial cost. Entry-level walking pads range from A$180–200, with more advanced treadmills costing upwards of $1,000. Additionally, a standing desk may be necessary for optimal use.
Before investing in a new desk setup, consider whether simpler, cost-effective alternatives like regular walking breaks away from the desk might suffice. Even minor increases in physical activity can make a substantial difference, particularly for those with sedentary work and lifestyle habits.
In conclusion, while under desk treadmills offer a promising approach to counteracting the sedentary nature of remote work, individuals should weigh the benefits against the costs and practicalities to determine the best solution for their personal and professional needs.
