In today’s competitive business & industrial environment, employee productivity is probably at its most crucial. One of the main factors affecting productivity is absence - which more often than not is due to illness. Staff shortages not only disrupts day-to-day workflow but can also increase costs and cause serious strain on other members of the team.
Exercise is well-known for its benefits to physical health and wellbeing, but its impact on reducing sick leave is sometimes underrated. Let’s get to work (so to speak) and explore how regular exercise can lead to healthier, happier employees and fewer sick days.
Boost To The Immune System
One of the key ways exercise reduces sick leave is by giving a good old boost to the body’s immune system. Regular exercise has been shown to strengthen the immune response, making the body more efficient at fighting off illnesses like colds and flu. Studies show that people that take part in regular exercise have around 40% less sick leave.
Exercise increases the production of white blood cells (the cells that help fight bacteria and infection).This obviously reduces the chances of getting ill in the first place but also speeds up recovery time if an illness does come about.
Improving Mental Health
Mental health plays a huge role in people needing to take a period of time away from work. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common reasons for people to need to take sick leave. However, exercise is a proven, natural mood booster. It enhances the production of endorphins. You know when you complete your PB in a 5km, or smash your one rep max and you feel like an absolute superhero? Yeah, they’re the exercise related endorphins we’re on about. Those endorphins really do fight off the symptoms that stress and anxiety causes.
By exercising, thus improving mental health, it gives employees the mental capacity and tools to better handle workplace challenges. As a result, they are less likely to take time off due to mental health issues.
Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes can lead to long-term sick leave. Regular exercise is arguably the best preventative measure that reduces the risk of developing these diseases. Exercise helps regulate weight & improves cardiovascular fitness which massively reduces long term health risks.
Reduces Fatigue
Employees who are fatigued are more likely to take sick leave. Exercise can help fight the feeling of fatigue by increasing energy levels. Exercise improves blood flow and improves sleep patterns and behaviours. Employees who are active statistically have more energy for longer periods of time, which reduces the chances of taking time off due to exhaustion.
Brings Good Vibes to the Workplace
Promoting exercise at the workplace can have positive effects beyond the individual health benefits listed above. Promoting activities like team sport (after work 5-a-side), yoga sessions, or group exercise class produces camaraderie and builds a sense of community. Not only will they be a work fam, they’ll be a fit fam! Positive workplace cultures increase job satisfaction, keeps workers healthy and happy and therefore reduces time in leave.
Exercise is a simple yet effective way to reduce sick leave and promote overall workplace wellness. From boosting the immune system to improving mental health, regular exercise offers a range of benefits that lead to healthier employees and fewer absences. If your workplace is in need of a well-needed fitness boost, check out our corporate discounts and get fit together.
