Cognitive function during low-intensity walking: a test of the treadmill workstation

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Sedentary behavior is prevalent in modern work and educational environments.
• Active workstations, such as treadmill desks, offer a potential solution to mitigate prolonged sitting.
• The impact of using active workstations on cognitive functions remains an area of interest.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of walking at a self-selected pace on an active workstation on cognitive performance.
• To compare cognitive task outcomes between treadmill desk use and traditional seated conditions.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-six healthy young adults participated in the study.
• Participants completed cognitive tests (Stroop, flanker, reading comprehension) under two conditions: walking on a treadmill desk and sitting.
• Conditions were counterbalanced and separated by a 48-hour washout period.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were observed in response speed or accuracy between the walking and seated conditions.
• Cognitive performance, including executive control processes, remained consistent regardless of the workstation type.

Conclusions:

• Walking on an active workstation at a self-selected speed does not adversely affect cognitive task performance.
• Active workstations are a viable option for reducing workplace and classroom sedentariness without compromising cognitive abilities.
• Findings support the integration of active workstations to promote healthier lifestyles and maintain productivity.