Posted by Stephen Messineo on Wed, Feb 10, 2010 @ 01:04 PM
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, over 30% of employees report high levels of stress and experience associated health problems on an ongoing basis. While there are a number of reasons for the cause of stress at work, its effect frequently results in illness and injury. The common disorders ensuing from a stressful work environment include psychological, emotional, behavioral and cognitive ailments. If left unchecked, simple issues may evolve over time into serious illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.
The lack of exercise on a daily basis can exacerbate many of the ailments associated with workplace pressures. However, many of the symptoms of such distress may be alleviated by making lifestyle choices which benefit employees both mentally and physically.
Your health may be at risk if you are experiencing symptoms relating to workplace stress. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, fatigue, lack of concentration, or experience aches, sleep disorders, or pain, then you would benefit from a change in lifestyle habits which encompass a suitable form of daily exercise.
You will need to cope with these pressures because although the causes may not be in your control, you will suffer the effects of job stress. To mitigate these effects, you may need to make lifestyle choices such as taking care of your diet and achieving work-life equilibrium. The set of stress inducing factors you deal with are unique to your individual situation. Implementing a daily exercise routine is just one step in the multi-faceted approach to helping yourself to improve workplace performance. The benefits of following such a routine have been shown to increase morale, improve mood and energy levels, and to achieve focus and induce relaxation.
How does exercising on a daily basis help you improve your performance on the job? Exercising daily has been proven to improve your mood and overall health, which has a positive impact on your ability to achieve your work goals.
A research study in the International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management by Sameer Kumar, et al (1) conducted a cost-benefit analysis of a company's employee wellness program and healthcare costs. It determined that improving employee health resulted in enhanced worker performance and thereby increased the organization's productivity. Thus it established a direct link between employee health and work productivity.
A second study in the Journal by J.C. Coulson et al (2) measured the specific effects of exercise in the workplace by a group of employees. The employees recorded data on days they exercised as well as on days they did not exercise. On comparison, a direct link between exercise and employee productivity was established. It was found that on the days that the group of employees chose to exercise, they experienced a positive change in mood, which led to enhanced performance outcomes.
If you are experiencing symptoms or know a person who has difficulties related to the workplace, including muscle aches, changes in appetite, sleep deprivation, and fatigue, we can help by customizing a plan to incorporate exercise in your daily routine. Our programs will help you cope with your career goals and help you improve your workplace performance over time.
References:
(1)
Operational Impact of Employee Wellness Programs: A Business Case Study Kumar, Sameer; McCalla, Michael; Lybeck, Eric: International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management. 58(6):581-597, 2009. DOI: 10.1108/17410400910977109
(2)
Exercising at Work and Self-Reported Work Performance Coulson, J.C.; McKenna, J.; Field, M. International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management. 1(3):176-197, 2009. DOI: 10.1108/17538350810926534