A study from Finland has revealed that standing for long periods at work negatively affects the blood pressure over a 24-hour period.
In contrast, more sitting at work was linked to healthier blood pressure levels.
This research indicates that physical activity during work hours may influence blood pressure more than exercise done during free time. Regular exercise is crucial for managing blood pressure.
Vigorous aerobic workouts are particularly effective in lowering it, but everyday activities also help. Earlier studies have shown that exercise done during leisure time benefits the heart more than activity done at work, which can sometimes have harmful effects.
The Finnish Retirement and Aging study (FIREA) from the University of Turku measured the activity levels of municipal workers nearing retirement. They used thigh-mounted accelerometers to track their movements during work, free time, and days off. Participants also wore a blood pressure monitor that recorded their readings every 30 minutes for a full day.
According to Doctoral Researcher Jooa Norha, looking at blood pressure over 24 hours provides a clearer picture of how it affects the heart and blood vessels throughout the day and night. If blood pressure remains high during the day and does not drop at night, it can lead to stiff blood vessels and extra strain on the heart, which may eventually result in heart disease.
“A standing desk can provide a nice change from sitting at the office, but too much standing can be harmful. It’s a good idea to take a break from standing during the work day, either by walking every half an hour or sitting for some parts of the day.”
“It is good to remember that being physically active at work is not enough on its own. Engaging in diverse physical exercise during leisure time helps to maintain fitness, making work-related strain more manageable. Similarly, employees with predominantly sedentary jobs should ensure that they get enough exercise during their leisure time,” Norha highlights.
In addition, the results of the study suggest that sedentary work in itself is not necessarily harmful to blood pressure.
Instead, researchers stress the importance of recreational physical activity for both office and construction workers.
The latest results confirm previous findings that physical activity at work can be harmful to the heart and circulatory system.
In particular, prolonged standing can raise blood pressure as the body boosts circulation to the lower limbs by constricting blood vessels and increasing the pumping power of the heart.
@ Vanguard Newspaper
