The use and evaluation of a theory-informed, multi-component intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour in the workplace

• Published in: Cogent psychology Vol. 4; no. 1; p. 1411038
• Main Authors: McGuckin, Teneale, Sealey, Rebecca, Barnett, Fiona
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Cogent 31.12.2017; Taylor & Francis Ltd; Taylor & Francis Group
• Subjects: Intervention; occupational; Sedentary behavior; sitting time
• ISSN: 2331-1908; 2331-1908
• DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2017.1411038

Occupational sedentary behaviour is a growing health concern which accounts for almost half of overall sedentary behaviour. Multi-component interventions are effective for reducing occupational sedentary behaviour. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a theory-informed, personalised intervention for the reduction of occupational sedentary behaviour of office workers. Full-time office-based workers were asked to complete an online survey to explore their perception of sedentary behaviour. Following this, pre-intervention activity patterns were collected for 5 days via an ActivPAL and a self-report workbook. The participants met with the investigator to discuss the key themes identified from the online survey, individual ActivPAL and self-report data. Participants set goals for the 6-week intervention, signed a commitment contract with stage of change and self-efficacy explored. During the final intervention week, participants wore an ActivPAL and were invited to participate in a follow-up interview. Twenty-seven office-based workers reduced occupational sitting time by an average of 45.2 ± 60.7 min per workday. Self-efficacy increased post intervention (pre: 69 ± 21%; post: 82 ± 16%). The follow-up interviews indicated that the intervention increased awareness of occupational sedentary behaviour and provided insight into the key behaviour change strategies utilised in the intervention.