The impact of stand-biased desks in classrooms on calorie expenditure in children

Am J Public Health. 2011 Aug;101(8):1433-6. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2010.300072. Epub 2011 Mar 18.

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a public health concern with significant health and economic impacts. We conducted a prospective experimental study in 4 classrooms in central Texas to determine the effect of desks that encourage standing rather than sitting on caloric expenditure in children. Students were monitored with calorie expenditure-measuring arm-bands worn for 10 days in the fall and spring. The treatment group experienced significant increases in calorie expenditure over the control group, a finding that has implications for policy and practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Energy Metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Interior Design and Furnishings*
  • Monitoring, Ambulatory
  • Obesity / prevention & control*
  • Posture*
  • Schools*