Table 1 Description of main contents during the workshop; participants were actively (i.e. physically active) or passively involved

I

Workshop trainers give some general information about inactive lifestyle and behavior (i.e. statistics) at German workplaces and resulting health-related issues (i.e. physically, social, psychological), based on recent studies. Different concepts for increased physical activities at the workplace are shown and participants are asked in anonymized live-questions about their daily physical activity.

passive

II

The trainers give instructions on adequate health safety standards regarding the office desk setting, based on German laws and regulations. This includes the rights & duties as well as the health-related behavior of office workers at their workplace (i.e. position of the desk, equipment, sitting/standing positions) in Germany. Again, the participants are asked for their participation in anonymized live-questions about these topics.

passive

III

Trainers show some exercises from the areas of mobilization, strengthening, and stretching. All examples can be performed at the workplace. At the end of this tryout, some recommendations for physical activity (i.e. how long and often exercises should be performed) are given.

active

IV

Trainers and participants of the workshop discuss opportunities and barriers to daily physical activity in individual group activities. Experiences are shared and the group works on the conception of action plans. Finally, each participant should create his/her plan.

active