Active Workstations

Active workstations can decrease sedentary time, contributing to increased physical activity and enhanced mental health.

Key Terms

• An Active Workstation is furniture designed to promote physical activity, including convertible sit-stand desks, workstations with treadmills or bicycles attached, under-desk elliptical machines, portable desk pedals, and stepper machines.

For full strategy and documentation requirements, please refer to the digital scorecard made available on the Fitwel Platform.

Strategy Insights

• High tops/tables do not qualify as active workstations; an adjustable desk does qualify. The research supporting the strategy shows that while sit-stand desks have health benefits, non-adjustable high top desks are still associated with ergonomic issues, because both prolonged sitting and standing are associated with discomfort. Being able to adjust the workstation setup is beneficial for occupants.
• In order to receive full credit for this strategy, the active workstations must be located at regularly occupied workstations, rather than offered as shared stations shared between multiple occupants.
• Projects must demonstrate that they provide personal active workstations at no cost when one is requested by a regular occupant. 
• Examples of Active Workstations include convertible sit-stand desks, workstations with treadmills or bicycles attached, under-desk elliptical machines, portable desk pedals, and stepper machines.

Documentation Guidance 

• Submit photographs showing an active workstation in use and with clear annotations, particularly if it is otherwise difficult to understand the design and intended use.

Sample Documentation