Abstract
Prolonged sedentary behavior among university students, faculty, and staff is associated with increased risk of chronic disease, poorer mental well-being, and diminished academic and occupational performance. As institutions seek practical strategies to integrate movement into the day, active workstations (e.g., sit-to-stand desks and desk bikes) have emerged as a promising approach to reduce sitting time while supporting productivity and overall health. PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of active workstations among the Southwestern University community and examine their perceived impact on physical activity levels, productivity and focus, stress and anxiety, and overall sedentary behavior. METHODS: Twenty-six participants (faculty, staff, and students) completed a survey including the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ), the Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire, and supplemental questions assessing use and perceptions of active workstations located on the Southwestern University campus. Participants were recruited through flyers, emails, social media, Postmaster announcements, and postings at the active workstation locations. Leisure Score Index (LSI) values were used to categorize participants into less active (n = 13) and more active groups (n = 13). Data were analyzed using Qualtrics Reports, independent t-tests, and Cohen’s d to assess effect sizes. RESULTS: Most participants (38.5%) reported low sedentary behavior, and 30.8% indicated plans to reduce sitting within the next 30 days. Independent t-tests revealed no significant differences between less active and more active groups in perceived increases in physical activity (t(24) = 0.447, p = 0.659), productivity and focus (t(24) = −0.539, p = 0.595), or reductions in stress and anxiety (t(24) = −1.585, p = 0.126). However, a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.622) suggested meaningful perceived reductions in stress and anxiety among more active participants. CONCLUSION: Although no statistically significant differences were observed between activity groups, participants generally reported positive experiences with active workstations, including enhanced focus, increased movement, and reduced stress. The presence of a moderate effect size indicates potential benefits and supports the need for further research to better understand the role of active workstations in promoting physical and mental well-being within a university setting.
Recommended Citation
Damron, Caylin; McWhorter, Lily; and Mikan, Vanessa PhD
(2026)
"From Sit to Fit: Evaluating Active Workstations at Southwestern University,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
18, Article 208.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss18/208