Vigorous Physical Activity Reduces Sickness Absence
Tuesday, May 4, 2010 - 08:49
A recent study found that men and women who were vigorously active reduced their amount of sickness absence. It seems as though most health benefits occur with moderate to vigorous physical activity. Have you ever wondered what moderate to vigorous activity really means?
Moderate Activities include:
- Walking with a purpose
- In-Line skating
- Bicycling on flat ground
- Recreational dancing
- Frisbee
- Recreational swimming
Vigorous Activities include:
- Jogging or running
- Bicycling on rolling terrain
- Aerobic dancing
- Jumping rope
- Competitive sports such as soccer, basketball, or touch football
The study examined an aging population (aged 40-60) and acknowledges that there are some limitations. One listed is that if people are vigorously active they may be part of a group that leads an overall healthy lifestyle. Workplace health promotion can play a key role in helping improve the lives of employees causing a positive domino effect in the work environment. Some positive benefits include:
- cost savings from reduced absenteeism
- reducing musculoskeletal symptoms
- preventing lower back pain
- improve overall health and well-being
- reduce risk taking behaviour
If you are not sure whether you have workplace health promotion, look into it. It may have a positive impact on your quality of life.
References
- Jenkins, A., Christensen, H., Walker, J., & Dear, K. (2009). The Effectiveness of Distance Interventions for Increasing Physical Activity: A Review. American Journal of Health Promotion, 24(2), 102-117.
- Lahti, J., Laaksonen, M., Lahelma, E., & Rahkonen, O. (2010). The impact of physical activity on sickness absence. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 20(2), 191-199.
