AUTHOR=Koepp Gabriel A. , Moore Graham , Levine James A. 

TITLE=An Under-the-Table Leg-Movement Apparatus and Changes in Energy Expenditure

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Physiology

VOLUME=Volume 8 - 2017

YEAR=2017

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2017.00318

DOI=10.3389/fphys.2017.00318

ISSN=1664-042X

ABSTRACT=Introduction.  Deskwork contributes substantially to sedentariness. Here, we evaluated an under-the-table apparatus that was designed to promote leg movement (fidgeting) while seated. Our hypothesis was that the under-the-table apparatus would increase energy expenditure. 

Methods. We measured energy expenditure and heart rate in 26 people while they sat and worked using a standard chair, walked on a treadmill, and sat and worked using an under-the-desk apparatus that encouraged leg movement. 

Results. Energy expenditure increased significantly while using the under-the-table apparatus when compared to the standard office chair (standard chair, 81+18 kcal/hr; under-the-table apparatus, 96+23 kcal/hr) (P< .001); representing an 18±16% increase. The changes in energy expenditure were not as great as walking (1 mph, 168+46 kcal/hour, P<.001; 2 mph, 205+51 kcal/hour, P<.001), representing 107+37% and 155+48% increases over baseline, respectively.
 
Conclusions.  An under-the-table apparatus that promotes leg movement can increase energy expenditure by approximately 20%. Dynamic sitting is promoted by this apparatus and may be among a lexicon of options to help people move more while seated at work.