Employee Wellbeing
April 21, 2023

The real impact of a lack of physical activity in the workplace

The impact that a lack of physical activity is having on your employees and the wider business.

Hilda Bahringer
3 minutes

A lack of physical activity in the workplace can have a significant impact on employee health and productivity. Many modern jobs involve long hours of sitting at a desk, which can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and a lack of physical activity. Here are some of the real impacts of a lack of physical activity in the workplace:

  1. Health problems: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to a range of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. These conditions can not only impact an employee's health but also result in increased healthcare costs and lost productivity.
  2. Decreased productivity: A lack of physical activity can also impact productivity in the workplace. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. Without regular physical activity, employees may struggle to stay focused and productive throughout the day.
  3. Increased stress: Physical activity is a proven stress-reliever, and without it, employees may experience increased stress levels. This can lead to absenteeism, burnout, and decreased morale.
  4. Decreased engagement: Employees who feel lethargic or unwell due to a lack of physical activity may become disengaged from their work. This can result in decreased motivation, lower job satisfaction, and higher turnover rates.
  5. Poor team morale: Physical activity can be a great way to build team morale and camaraderie in the workplace. Without opportunities for physical activity, employees may feel isolated or disconnected from their coworkers.

Employers can take steps to address the lack of physical activity in the workplace by promoting regular physical activity and encouraging movement throughout the day. This could include offering standing desks or treadmill workstations, providing gym memberships, encouraging walking meetings, or promoting fitness challenges. By prioritizing physical activity in the workplace, employers can improve employee health, productivity, engagement, and morale.

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