Given the technological advances of the past few decades we are now feeling the impact socially and physically on our day to day lives. We find that people are relying more on emails to communicate in the workplace instead of walking over to their colleague’s desk to ask a question – even if they are in the next cubicle. Children are glued to their computers or are spending their free time in front of the TV playing videos games instead of outdoors playing catch. Not only is human interaction suffering, our health is slowly deteriorating. As concerns about an inactive population run rampant, it is more obvious then ever that the positive consequences of physical activity go beyond what you see in the mirror. Not only does it effect your personal life, it can impact your professional life as well. Physical activity can make the difference between a mediocre employee and an exceptional employee. The choice is yours.
A physically active person typically enjoys:
- Increased awareness, more alert
- Reduced stress
- Improved sleep patterns
- More stamina and increased energy
- Positive attitude
- Improved health and wellness, including reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other ailments
- Enhanced quality of life
Are these benefits alone enough to get you started on a workout regime?
Studies have shown that organizations where employees are active typically experience the following benefits:
- Lower stress levels and job related tension
- Improved productivity and overall confidence
- Lower turnover rate
- Decrease in absenteeism, or sick leave time
- Reduced health insurance costs
Companies are looking for ways to control soaring health insurance costs while maintaining the same coverage their employees have come to expect. Some organizations have gone as far as to create and implement health and wellness programs for their employees to encourage physical activity. This includes on-site fitness facilities, reduced gym membership fees, and the creation of corporate sports teams, to name a few. Has your organization taken up this cause?
We all know that keeping the body moving has positive consequences in all faucets of our lives. So the next time you decide to sit yourself in front of the television after a long day of work, think of how much better you would feel if you just stepped out for a 20 minute stroll around your neighborhood. A little effort for a life long investment both personally and professionally.
Follow @sgallacher
