The Benefits of Physical Activity
Studies have shown that incorporating physical activity into the workday can have numerous benefits. 5 of the most key benefits have been broken down below:
1. Improving Mental Health and Reducing Stress
Physical activity releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, which can boost mood and reduce stress levels. Regular exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health and can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Incorporating physical activity into the workday can help create an affirmative and relaxed atmosphere, leading to increased job satisfaction and a low tension environment (Loprinzi, Trost, & Gerry, 2013).
2. Increasing Productivity and Creativity
Physical activity can also improve cognitive function, increase alertness and overall cognitive performance. Regular exercise can also improve sleep quality, catching a regular nightly 7-8 hours of sleep has shown to be an essential factor in optimal cognitive performance (Guiney & Machado, 2013, Youngstedt, O’Connor, Dishman, & Landers, 1997).
3. Improving Overall Health and Reducing Risk of Chronic Diseases
Regular physical activity has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Inactivity is a major contributor to the development of chronic diseases, so incorporating physical activity into the workday is an essential step in maintaining a long term healthy workplace (American Heart Association, 2021).
4. Boosting Energy Levels and Reducing Fatigue
Exercise can increase circulation and blood oxygenation, providing more energy to the body and reducing feelings of fatigue. Incorporating physical activity into the workday can help boost energy levels, making it easier to get through the day and improve overall productivity
5. Enhancing Teamwork and Social Interactions among Co-workers
Physical activity can create opportunities for team building, social interaction and the formation of positive relationships among co-workers. Exercise can help bring people together, foster teamwork and improve overall work satisfaction.
Strategies to promote physical activity within the workplace
Now that the benefits of physical activity have been established, the question remains how do encourage a workforce to increase their physical activity levels? The following strategies can to be effective in promoting an ‘Active Workplace’
- Encourage Active Commuting: Encourage employees to walk, bike or take public transportation to work. Provide bike storage and showers for those who bike to work.
- Provide Exercise Opportunities: Offer on-site exercise classes or gym facilities for employees to use during breaks or after work.
- Create Active Workspaces: Encourage standing desks, treadmill desks, and other active workstations.
- Organise Group Activities: Plan company-wide events such as walkathons, sports tournaments, or fitness challenges to encourage physical activity.
- Encourage Breaks: Encourage employees to take regular breaks to move and stretch throughout the day.
- Lead by Example: Encourage senior management to demonstrate the importance of physical activity by participating in physical activities and promoting a healthy workplace culture.
- Provide Incentives: Offer incentives such as gym memberships, fitness trackers or wellness programs to encourage physical activity.
- Promote Wellness Programs: Offer wellness programs and health promotion initiatives to educate employees on the importance of physical activity and overall health.
- Create a Walking Group: Encourage employees to join a walking group during lunch or after work to get some exercise and socialise.
In summary, there are numerous strategies effective in promoting exercise within the workplace and Employ Health is well placed to assist. A good place to start is through our Active Office training which provides a strong foundation to introduce some of our other exciting health and wellness services. We know the benefits of exercise are numerous so, take a break from your desk, move around and get some exercise. Your body and mind will thank you!