Reducing occupational sedentary behavior
in office workers

Student: Quin van Zoest

Partner: ONVZ and Workplace Vitality Hub

Coach: Eveline Kersten

Effect of occupational sedentariness

Excessive sedentary behavior is a growing issue in office culture. Office workers spend long hours sitting, leading to increased risks of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal problems, certain cancers, and even depression and anxiety. Research shows that high levels of sedentariness significantly impact overall health and well-being.

This research aims to help ONVZ develop an intervention strategy to reduce occupational sedentariness and promote a healthy office environment.

It's time to break the habit! 

Methods

The research is based on observations, interviews with stakeholders and experts, scientific literature, a questionnaire, and a focus group.

Intervention strategy

Research shows that a multicomponent intervention strategy, focusing on changes in the physical and social environment, along with the implementation of behavior change techniques, is the most promising approach to reducing excessive sedentary behavior.

The strategy includes education, self-monitoring, action planning, goal setting, and prompts/cues, with a strong emphasis on social stimulation. ONVZ has already planned changes to the physical environment.