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3 clusters · 14 sources · 17 days · First seen · Last updated

Impact of remote work on physical activity

Overview

Research conducted in Finland, Norway, and through a 2025 meta-analysis indicates that remote and hybrid work models are associated with increased sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity.

A study from the University of Turku, part of the WORKDAY project, found that while remote work days allowed participants to sleep an average of 15 minutes more, it also resulted in an additional 45 minutes of sitting or lying down. Using thigh-worn accelerometers, researchers observed a decrease in standing time, light physical activity, and moderate-to-vigorous exercise, attributing this to the loss of incidental activities like commuting or walking within an office.

Supporting these findings, a Norwegian study of over 2,000 participants showed that increasing home office days to four or five per week led to an approximately 12 percent drop in overall activity levels. Researcher Eirik Degerud noted that while movement decreases, the reduction might indicate “better concentration and peace for work” when at home.

A meta-analysis of 38 studies suggests these shifts may impact body weight by altering Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT). The analysis found that remote workers spend an average of 31 minutes more sitting during the workday and take approximately 2,564 fewer steps per day than in-person employees. This suggests that even individuals with regular gym routines may experience a decrease in total daily physical activity due to the loss of incidental movements such as walking to meetings or using stairs.

Entities

Lisebeth Skeie Skarpaas · OsloMet · Eirik Degerud · Norwegian Institute of Occupational Health · University of Turku

Timeline

  1. [HEALTH] 6 sources
    Remote work linked to decreased daily movement and potential weight gain

    A 2025 meta-analysis reveals that remote workers take about 2,564 fewer steps daily and sit for 31 minutes longer than office workers, potentially impacting weight due to reduced incidental movement.

  2. [HEALTH] 3 sources
    Remote work linked to decreased physical activity

    Research from Finland and Norway shows that remote work reduces physical activity, with employees sitting longer and engaging in significantly less movement than when working in an office.

  3. [HEALTH] 5 sources
    University of Turku study finds remote work increases sleep but decreases movement

    Research from the University of Turku shows remote workers sleep 15 minutes more on average but spend 45 minutes more sitting or lying down compared to office days.

Sources

abc17news.com · combonoticias.com · corfutvnews.gr · dagens.no · gestion.pe · kesq.com · keyt.com · mamma.no · naftemporiki.gr · radioh.no · seccionnoticias.net.pe · thatslife.gr · vita.gr · vtv.vn

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history