The couch is not to blame: why remote work is stealing your health

Finnish researchers have found that remote work increases sedentary time by 45 minutes per day compared to office work, raising the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues. A study of 99 hybrid employees showed the main cause is the disappearance of the commute, which provided unplanned physical activity.

Finnish researchers have discovered that remote work is stealing health by increasing sedentary time by 45 minutes per day compared to office work. The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, involved 99 hybrid employees who wore motion sensors on their thighs. The devices recorded posture, sleep, and physical activity on office and home days. The main reason for the loss of activity is the disappearance of the commute, which provided unplanned walking and cycling. At home, this resource disappears, and people do not notice the loss. The only improvement is sleep: on home days, participants slept 15 minutes longer, but this benefit does not outweigh the downsides of prolonged sitting. Scientists link inactivity to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, higher 'bad' cholesterol, muscle weakness, cancer risk, and reduced cognitive function. The authors advise those working from home to intentionally incorporate movement: short walks, regular breaks for stretching, and replacing sitting with standing.