Lack of Exercise Linked to Job Burnout

It seems that an effective way for employers to prevent employee burnout is by encouraging more physical activity.

A University of Michigan study found that employees who engage in moderate exercise regularly are less likely to experience burnout compared to their less active colleagues.

Those who exercised moderately reported feeling less emotionally drained and more fulfilled at work.

The study analyzed the physical activity and professional performance of 520 full-time workers.

Researchers concluded that promoting exercise can lead to happier and healthier employees, reduce turnover, increase productivity, and cut costs.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that Americans get about two and a half hours of moderate exercise each week, but nearly 80% of the population falls short of this goal.

Time and financial constraints are major barriers to sufficient exercise for workers.

The return to office environments and commuting consume time that could otherwise be spent working out, and the high cost of living can make gym memberships unaffordable.

However, employers can help by offering benefits and policies that encourage regular physical activity.

Examples include providing stipends for gym memberships or workout equipment like under-the-desk treadmills for remote or hybrid workers, having on-site gym facilities, or allowing employees to exercise during work hours.

Some federal agencies, such as the National Security Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, permit employees to take up to three hours a week off as excused absence to work out during regular hours.

"This is a perfect example of integrating physical activity into workplace policies," said Michele Marenus, a co-author of the study.

"It shows employees that their well-being is important at a policy level, not just from their direct manager."

Manager support is crucial as well. For instance, managers can schedule workout or walking times on their calendars and inform their team, making employees feel more comfortable doing the same.

Marenus, also a research scientist at Personify Health, an app that incentivizes fitness goals, noted that beyond time and money, motivation is a significant barrier to exercise.

Apps like Personify Health can motivate employees through gamification.

"Employers understand that retaining talent requires incentives related to health and well-being," she said.

Ultimately, fostering a culture that recognizes and supports employees' fitness needs is essential, according to Steve Carver, business and product development director at JumpSport.

"Any kind of movement is crucial for a better day, especially at work," Carver said. "If you want a healthy, happy workforce, you should encourage physical activity during work hours."

Source: worklife

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