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

Abstract

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.