Sex-specific electromyographic, performance, and symptomatic differences between sitting and cycling computer...

Studies suggest that computer workers may benefit from cycling workstations; however, little is known about the sex-specific mechanistic impacts of cycling on computer work-related risk factors. Twenty-six computer users (14 females) underwent two 60-min sessions of typing: one sitting, and one lightly cycling, while performance, symptoms and electromyography were recorded. Results show that males' typing speed was lower during cycling than sitting, while females' performance remained similar between conditions (Sex × Condition, p = 0.029). Neck/shoulder and visual discomfort were lower during cycling for both sexes, with females experiencing less neck/shoulder discomfort than males (Sex × Condition × Time, p = 0.006). Neck/shoulder muscle activation increased with time during sitting but decreased during cycling, especially in females. Low back muscle activity was higher during cycling, particularly in females (Sex × Condition × Time interaction, p = 0.046). Findings suggest sex-specific responses to cycling during computer work.