Research carried out in the United States has released new evidence of the health benefits of walking while working. Physical inactivity and sitting for prolonged periods of time are increasingly being linked to a high risk of digestive complaints, obesity and related diseases; hence more research is looking at ways of incorporating exercise in an office-based workplace. Walking workstations consist of raised desks with a walking exercise machine positioned underneath, so that rather than sitting at the desk, the user must consistently walk at a steady pace. The researchers found that those working at a walking workstation had higher levels of satisfaction and arousal, were less bored or stressed than either a standing workstation or conventional sitting arrangement. A cycling workstation didn’t perform as well however, with participants reporting reduced satisfaction and performance. So, comfortable walking shoes may end up being the essential work footwear of the future.