Occupational health: physical activity and increased productivity

Although working at a computer may seem harmless, it is a perfect example of sedentary work that can lead to musculoskeletal injuries as a result of maintaining a prolonged static position. Repetitive cursor movement and intensive use of the keyboard, combined with heavy workloads, stress and poorly designed workstations, are major risk factors. These conditions can lead to problems such as epicondylitis (tennis elbow), and tendonitis of the shoulders, wrists and arms [4]. And working standing up at a computer is not necessarily the ideal solution [5]!

A lack of physical activity reduces caloric expenditure and therefore contributes to weight gain. However, we often underestimate another consequence of sedentary behaviour: it increases the risk of developing more than 10 types of cancer, including colon, breast and endometrial cancers [6]. It is also associated with the development of metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, and circulatory disorders, which increase the risk of heart disease [7].

The pressure associated with an excessive workload and tight deadlines, combined with constant interruptions, can result in psychological distress leading to burnout. In addition, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), being sedentary, both at work and in daily life, can increase the risk of depression and anxiety by 25% [8].

According to Kino-Québec, people who engage in regular physical activity are absent from work less often and for shorter periods of time than their inactive colleagues, and their productivity increases by around 10% [9].

Santé Québec reminds us that in addition to reducing absences for illness, physical activity helps with [10]:

• preventing chronic illnesses such as cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart diseases;
• improving attention, concentration and other cognitive functions;
• maintaining good mental health;
• improving sleep;
• lowering stress and anxiety, while preventing depression;
• reducing smoking.

Exercise and endorphins

A number of studies have shown that exercise promotes the release of endorphins, substances that reduce pain, stress and anxiety. Exercise also helps lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

In addition to reducing stress, physical exercise improves our mood, makes us feel less tired and improves our energy levels. It can also boost self-esteem by helping achieve personal goals. By increasing blood flow to the brain, exercise can improve cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention and how quickly we process information [11]. An American study published in 2016 suggests that active breaks at work are important, since they improve our interpersonal relationships and mental health [12].

There are a multitude of active breaks, lasting 5 to 15 minutes, which can be practised both in the workplace and when working at home. These range from simple stretching and yoga poses, to walking or climbing up and down stairs [13].

Regardless of its size or activity sector, a company can incorporate physical activity in a variety of ways. Management commitment and the creation of a health and well-being committee are essential. Many external firms can assist employers in this process. Here are a few practical initiatives:

• Implement programs that include sports, yoga or meditation sessions.
• Encourage employees to bike or walk to work, by providing suitable facilities such as showers and secure places to park their bikes.
• Organize sporting challenges or events to encourage staff to move.
• Offer discounts on gym memberships.
• Provide financial support to purchase sports equipment or ergonomic desks that encourage people to move, such as adjustable desks or exercise balloons.

Integrating physical activity into the daily lives of employees is a sound investment for companies. By encouraging an active lifestyle, companies not only improve the health and well-being of their employees but also boost productivity while reducing the cost of sick leave.

This makes physical activity a win-win approach, beneficial to both occupational health and organizational performance.