Device-measured physical activity and sedentary behavior during office vs. remote workdays among hybrid workers

Abstract Objectives Daily sedentary time has been found to be higher during remote workdays compared to office workdays, but current evidence relays on studies from pandemic times. This study aimed to compare device-measured physical activity and sedentary behavior between office and remote workdays, worktimes, and non-worktimes among Finnish hybrid workers. Methods Overall, 97 university employees (84% women, mean age 41.6 (SD 10.5) years) wore Fibion SENS sensor on their thigh for 7 consecutive days and provided at least one remote and one office workday. Sedentary time (SED), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were measured for remote and office workdays, worktimes, and non-worktimes. A linear mixed model was used to study the within-individual differences. Results Remote workdays accumulated 44 min (95% confidence interval (CI) 25-64) more SED, 29 min (95% CI 10-48) less LPA, and 15 min (95% CI 11-20) less MVPA compared to office workdays. Remote worktime included 31 min (95% CI 15-48) more SED, 24 min (95% CI 8-40) less LPA, and 7 min (95% CI 5-10) less MVPA compared to the office worktime. Non-working hours accumulated more SED and less MVPA during remote vs. office workday. Conclusions Remote workdays included less physical activity and more sedentary behavior compared to office workdays, especially during working hours. Because of the popularity of remote work, strategies to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior during remote work are warranted. What is already known on this topic Remote work is a popular way of working, but it may increase daily sedentary time. What this study adds Higher levels of sedentary behavior and lower physical activity during remote vs. office workdays derived mainly from morning and working hours. How this study might affect research, practice or policy Actions and interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior during remote working hours are needed.