Trying To Lose Weight? That Standing Desk Isn't Helping Much

Sorry, worker bees. Your standing desk may not help much if losing weight is your goal. 

A University of Pittsburgh study, published this month, found participants who stood while working only burned eight or nine calories per hour more than if they sat.

This doesn't mean you should give up on standing at work. Some studies have linked prolonged sitting to increased chances of heart failure and premature death. 

But a recent analysis of past studies on standing couldn't find any clear-cut evidence that it helps you burn a significant amount of calories. 

And the University of Pittsburgh's study this month isn't tilting the scales in standing's favor. 

Taking short walks during your shift may be the key. Walking at a relaxed pace burned about three times as many calories as sitting or standing.

This video includes an image from Logan Ingalls / CC BY 2.0.