Device-Measured Sedentary Behavior Patterns in Office-Based University Employees

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe device-measured patterns of sedentary behavior in self-identified sedentary university employees.

Methods: Participants (n = 78) wore the ActiGraph GT3X+ and the activPAL3 for 7 days. Data from the ActiGraph were used to identify time in sedentary behavior, light-intensity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Data from the activPAL identified time sitting/lying, standing, and stepping. Breaks in sedentary time and prolonged sedentary bouts were described.

Results: During workdays, participants spent 65% to 79% of time sedentary, 16% in light-intensity physical activity, and 4% in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, 76% of time was spent sitting/lying, 16% standing, and 8% stepping. Between 10 and 12 breaks in sedentary time were accumulated.

Conclusion: Office-based university employees spend a high proportion of their time sedentary, but accumulate a high number of breaks. Whether these breaks are appropriate in timing, duration, and intensity to elicit health benefits seen in laboratory studies requires further investigation.