Where and how people in Canada work is evolving: 53% work exclusively from their workplace, 15% work exclusively from home and 26% have hybrid work arrangements. Similarly, it’s time to change the outdated idea of employees working all day without leaving their workstations. That’s because too much sedentary time is related to increased risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers, and can even lead to poorer cognitive function.
Not only can breaking up sedentary behaviour and squeezing in physical activity reduce these risks, but they can also improve employee performance and productivity. Here’s how:
4 proven ways physical activity can improve employee performance and productivity:
1. Greater ability to focus
Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, resulting in better focus and attention. In his book, The Ripple Effect, author Dr. Greg Wells describes the concept of “muscular meditation,” where performing a repetitive type of physical activity, such as walking or cycling, reduces stress and puts the brain in a more relaxed state.
Tip: To help your employees recharge their batteries mid-day, start a lunchtime walking or wheeling group, or offer lunchtime workouts or yoga sessions with an instructor or a video. The movement pattern of walking or wheeling will have a calming effect, while the yoga stretches and mindful breathing exercises will provide your employees with a refreshed outlook for the afternoon.
2. Improved brain function
People who are regularly active are consistently more productive after seven hours of work than those who aren’t – they have more energy, clearer minds and enhanced concentration. Physically active employees are also primed to take in and retain new information, since the hippocampus (the core processor of the brain’s learning and memory systems) responds strongly to aerobic exercise. Research shows that problem solving, memory and attention are immediately enhanced following exercise.
Since physical activity can have a dramatic impact on our cognitive and organizational abilities, it’s a valuable tool to help optimize employee performance and productivity.
Tip: Promote and permit short active breaks and on-the-move meetings, especially one-on-ones, small group discussions and phone calls, throughout the workday. If this isn’t possible and meetings are scheduled for more than an hour, encourage two-minute, mid-meeting fit breaks. During staff training sessions, use active icebreaker games or interactive group tasks that get employees moving while enhancing group dynamics.
3. Enhanced creativity
Daily physical activity is scientifically proven to improve divergent and convergent thinking, the two components of creative thought. Studies show that aerobic forms of exercise – such as walking, jogging, biking or swimming – are most effective at boosting creativity.
Tip: Taking a brainstorming session outside is a tried-and-true way to stimulate creativity and “blue-sky” thinking. Inspiration may strike while strolling or wheeling to the coffee shop, or walking to a transit stop at the end of the day. Remind your team that fresh air can spark fresh ideas.
4. Improved leadership skills
Management roles can be stressful and demanding. The good news is that a consistent physical activity routine will make you an even better leader by enhancing your confidence and productivity.
Tip: Try to model the behaviours you want to see reflected by your employees. Encourage other leaders and managers to join in. When your colleagues see you taking meetings on the move, actively commuting and prioritizing movement, chances are they’ll follow suit.
