Peer-reviewed research
Computer terminal work and the benefit of microbreaks
Linda Mclean et al., Applied Ergonomics, 2001 · DOI 10.1016/s0003-6870(00)00071-5
Read the originalRead on October 16, 2026
- What it is
- A randomised study of computer keyboard workers who were assigned to take microbreaks at their own discretion, every 20 minutes, or every 40 minutes. It measured muscle activity, perceived discomfort and productivity.
- How much weight it carries
- Peer-reviewed, randomised, from a physiotherapy group in Dalhousie University. The discomfort result is perceived discomfort in a short session, so it does not show long-term protection from injury.
Facts taken from this source
- In the 2001 randomised study, microbreaks reduced discomfort in every area measured, particularly when taken every 20 minutes.
“microbreaks had a positive effect on reducing discomfort in all areas studied during computer terminal work, particularly when breaks were taken at 20 min intervals” (Abstract)