Movement-enhancing library workplaces at universities A study on effectiveness and acceptance among students

Background Lack of physical activity and long, uninterrupted periods of sitting are increasingly considered as independent health risk factors and are very pronounced in people with a high level of education. This particularly affects young adults in general and university students in particular. Objectives Evaluation of acceptance and effectiveness of a preventive intervention to reduce sitting time and increase the sitting interruptions of students at the university. Materials and methods A mixed methods design (quantitative recording of the motion profile by motion sensors and qualitative guideline interviews) was used for the implementation of movement-enhancing, height-adjustable workstations in a university library to evaluate the sedentary behavior of 10 students. Results The use of height-adjustable workplaces that promote movement results in a significant reduction in sitting time and a significant increase in sitting interruptions. In addition, a positive evaluation and high level of acceptance of the new workplaces among users can be seen and a contribution can be made to their well-being Conclusions The use of movement-enhancing workplaces in university libraries can be an effective intervention to increase health-promoting conditions in the university setting and thus to contribute to an increase in a lifestyle that promotes physical activity among students.

Automated summary

Implementing movement-enhancing, height-adjustable workstations in university libraries can significantly reduce students' sitting time and increase sitting interruptions, with positive evaluation and high acceptance among users, contributing to students' well-being.