Finnish researchers found that prolonged standing elevates blood pressure. This contrasts the popular beliefs that standing is good for the heart. Many bought work tables where they can stand. However, the researchers found that standing prompts the heart to work harder. This is needed to maintain circulation in the lower limbs. In turn, it leads to increased vascular resistance and elevated blood pressure.
Sedentary work found to be healthier
The researchers did the Finnish Retirement and Aging study (FIREA) at the University of Turku. Its findings suggest that workday activity patterns, such as standing or sitting, influence blood pressure over a 24-hour period. And this influence is much more significant than recreational physical activity. The most surprising conclusion is not about standing linked to elevated 24-hour blood pressure. It is that more sedentary work links to healthier levels of blood pressure.
24 hours blood pressure monitoring
The 24-hour blood pressure monitoring is a method for assessing blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours. It provides insights into daily fluctuations and nighttime reductions of blood pressure. Both are critical for cardiovascular health.
The research utilized thigh-worn accelerometers. They tracked the activity levels of municipal employees nearing retirement age. Thy did it during work hours, leisure time and days off. The researchers monitored the participants’ blood pressure using a portable device. It measured blood pressure every 30 minutes over a 24-hour period.
Continuous blood pressure monitoring provides a clearer picture of cardiovascular stress compared to isolated readings. Elevated blood pressure throughout the day and insufficient decreases at night contribute to arterial stiffness. Also, they increase heart workload. This heightens the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Prolonged standing at work elevates blood pressure and raises health concerns
The findings add to previous evidence that work-related physical activity may harm the cardiovascular system. Prolonged standing, in particular, prompts the heart to work harder to maintain circulation in the lower limbs, leading to increased vascular resistance and elevated blood pressure. While standing desks are popular for promoting movement, overuse without breaks may pose risks.
“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,” Dr. Jooa Norha of the University of Turku.
Standing at work elevated blood pressure: Balancing work activity with leisure-time exercise
The study found that sedentary work itself does not necessarily harm blood pressure. However, the researchers emphasized the critical role of recreational physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Diverse and intentional leisure-time exercise – such as aerobic or strength-training activities – supports fitness, reduces stress and helps offset any strain from workplace activity. This is vital for both sedentary workers and those in physically demanding roles, such as construction.
