An Evidence-Based Health Promotion for Employers
Aug. 26, 2022
Healthiest Employers is excited to announce our partnership with Stand & Move at Work, a research study developed by the University of Minnesota and Arizona State University. This program was designed to encourage employees to increase movement throughout the workday and prevent prolonged periods of sitting. With funding from the National Institutes of Health, this program is provided to employers at no cost.
Employers who utilize this program receive several benefits, including improvements in metabolic health, increased ROI of standing workstations, and employee empowerment.
Backed by Research
In October of 2020, this research team found that encouraging the use of standing workstations reduced lower back pain, improved blood pressure, and healthier weight in at-risk members for diabetes and heart disease. This program is free for two years to qualifying worksites and they are actively recruiting companies to be considered for the study.
This same study claims that most developed countries spend approximately 70-80% of their work time seated or inactive, leading to increased risk of several chronic conditions. Several other studies have indicated that sedentary lifestyles lead to higher risk of cardiovascular disease among adults.
For more information on this research study, please click here!
Program Overview
This virtual program is available via an online platform, which houses all of the relevant materials necessary to complete the study. Members have access to training modules and step-by-step guides to help encourage increased standing throughout the day.
Ideal candidates for this study will have:
- Standing desks and workstations available to employees
- 45 members working onsite at least 3 days per week
- Primarily desk-based work
- The ability to have one “champion”, or influencer in their population to implement the program (Wellness Managers/Coordinators would be a great fit!)
Participating employees will complete four surveys over the two-year study period. 60 employees are randomly selected to wear an activity monitor for a week and will then fill out a two minute sleep survey to help researchers better understand all aspects of participants’ health. Program participation is voluntary.
Get Involved
If you are interested in implementing Stand & Move at Work in your organization, please fill out the interest form at https://www.sph.umn.edu/research/projects/stand-move/ to see if your organization qualifies for the research study. Enrolling in this program helps the science programs at both the University of Minnesota and Arizona State University and to make advancements in population health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at info@healthiestemployers.com!
