Prahran scientists investigate whether sitting all day at work is bad for the brain

MELBOURNE scientists are investigating whether sitting for long periods is no good for your noggin ... while standing up we hope.

Research study into how exercise and taking breaks benefit the brain

IS SITTING down for long periods bad for your brain? Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute scientists are delving head first into a study to find out.

The Prahran institute’s project, creatively titled The Brain Breaks Study, is investigating whether breaking up prolonged sessions of sitting down with activities such as a brisk walk will benefit your mind.

Institute PhD student Michael Wheeler said the study, which involved recreating a typical office job scenario, would build on previous Baker IDI research which showed the practice had positive effects on metabolism.

“So the question is: will that have a positive effect on brain health?,” Mr Wheeler said.

“That’s what we’re trying to find out.”

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Mr Wheeler said people involved in the study take part in three different scenarios performed randomly.

The first scenario involves eight hours of sitting to replicate what happens in many offices — or loungerooms during the Cricket World Cup.

The second involves a half-hour of brisk walk in the morning followed by a sit session, while the final scenario includes parking your bum with three-minute walks every hour.

“We know that the brisk walk should have immediate benefits, but we’re not sure if those benefits will last until the end of the day,” he said.

“And, will the addition of breaking up the sitting add any extra benefits? This is an important question as in Australia the number of people living with dementia is set to triple by 2050.”

Baker IDI PhD candidate Michael Wheeler with David Alexander. Picture: Janine Eastgate

“We know that the brisk walk should have immediate benefits, but we’re not sure if those benefits will last until the end of the day,” — Michael Wheeler, Baker IDI PhD candidate

Warrandyte’s David Alexander, one of the first to take part in the study, spent most of his working life sitting at a desk for eight to 10 hours.

Mr Alexander, 64, said he was interested in the positive effects of taking regular breaks.

He said he felt more productive after a short stroll during the tests.

“You certainly notice there’s a difference in productivity throughout the day when you exercise,” Mr Alexander said.

“You need to keep the body and the brain active; it’s all part of a wellbeing package.”

The institute has a target of 69 people to take part in the study. They must be aged between 55 and 80 with a body mass index between 25 and 40.

Sound like you? Contact Michael Wheeler on 8532 1898 or via email HERE, or Ian Mullis on 8532 1100 or via email HERE.