Effectiveness of a Workplace Mindfulness-Based Multi-Component Intervention on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior

Background and Aim: Mindfulness training can be an effective strategy to optimize lifestyle behaviors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a worksite mindfulness-based multi-component intervention on vigorous physical activity in leisure time and sedentary behavior at work.

Methods: In a randomized controlled trial design (n=257), 129 workers received an in-company mindfulness training with homework exercises, followed by 8 sessions of e–coaching, and additionally lunch walking routes and fruit. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months using questionnaires. Physical activity was also measured using (Actigraph) accelerometers. Effects were analyzed using linear mixed effect models. Linear regression models were used as sensitivity analyses.

Results: There were no significant differences in physical activity and sedentary behaviors between the intervention and control group after 6 or 12 months. The sensitivity analyses showed effect modification for gender in sedentary behaviour at work at 6-month follow-up, although the main analyses did not.

Conclusion: This study did not show an effect of a worksite mindfulness-based multi-component intervention on the physical activity and sedentary behaviors. For future mindfulness research, intervention aims besides the cognitive dimension of lifestyle behavior could be explored. It is further recommended for worksite health promotion to also address other dimensions and combine environmental and individual components in an intervention. As standardized validated questionnaires measuring sedentary behavior at work are currently lacking, the development of such is recommended considering the growing evidence on the health effects of prolonged sitting time.