Physical Activity for Health & Productivity in the Workplace

Physical activity is essential in today’s fast-paced and often sedentary work environment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that regular physical activity enhances physical health and boosts mental well-being, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Adding an hour of walking per week could significantly improve your overall health and reduce mortality risk. The benefits of physical activity are far too many to ignore. Find out how to improve your quality of life by adding movement to your daily activities.

Physical Activity Provides Health Benefits:

Regular physical activity helps maintain and improve physical health. Moderate to vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week significantly lowers the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Physical activity also improves musculoskeletal health, reducing the risk of work-related injuries and chronic pain, particularly in jobs that require prolonged sitting or repetitive motions.

Mental Health and Cognitive Function

An analysis of the effects of workplace physical activity in companies showed that employees who participated in regular physical exercise reported lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to their sedentary counterparts. Physical activity promotes the release of endorphins or “feel good” hormones and helps regulate sleep patterns, contributing to mental well-being. Physical activity enhances cognitive function: regular aerobic exercise can improve employees’ memory, attention, and executive function. This improvement in cognition and mental health can improve problem-solving skills, creativity, and overall job performance.

Productivity and Job Satisfaction

Physically active employees tend to be more productive, with lower absenteeism and higher levels of engagement at work. The physical and mental health benefits translate into increased energy levels, reduced fatigue, and a greater ability to focus on tasks. More so, employees who engage in regular physical activity report greater job satisfaction and a more positive attitude towards their work environment. Why? This is mainly due to exercise’s stress-relief and mood-enhancing effects, which make employees feel more content, confident, and motivated.

Promoting physical activity in the workplace ensures employees’ longevity and well-being. Strategies may include:

On-site Fitness Facilities and Programs: Providing on-site fitness centers or subsidized gym memberships can make it easier for employees to incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Offering group fitness classes, yoga sessions, or wellness workshops can also foster a culture of health and wellness. Take advantage of any opportunities provided by your employer!
Flexible Work Schedules: Allowing flexible work hours or break times enables employees to find time for exercise and movement without compromising their responsibilities. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for employees with demanding schedules. Even a short movement break can add up to provide adequate physical activity throughout the week!
Active Workstations: Standing desks, treadmill desks, and balance ball chairs are innovative solutions that promote movement during work hours. These active workstations help reduce the health risks associated with prolonged sitting and can provide opportunities for movement and mobility breaks!
Wellness Challenges and Incentives: Organizing wellness challenges or competitions, such as step-count contests or fitness challenges, can motivate employees to stay active. Offering incentives or rewards for participation can further boost engagement and camaraderie!

The research supports the importance of active lifestyles for employee wellness. Participating in daily exercise and movement breaks enhances physical and mental health, boosting productivity and job satisfaction. Organizations can create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce by implementing strategies to promote physical activity in the workplace. It is a strategic move that can lead to long-term organizational success. Take advantage of any opportunities to increase your daily activity. Look into your workplace’s perks or take your exercise breaks outside!

The Treo Wellness platform offers a variety of movement modalities and workouts, including movement breaks that can be a part of your workday. Contact us at info@treowellness.com to find out how your organization can gain access to this and many other workouts or schedule a demo here.

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