Stress @ Work

In the UK, it is a well known fact that we work the longest hours but have the lowest levels of productivity out of any of our EU counterparts and the problem is only getting exacerbated.

Indeed stress levels amongst workers are reaching new heights and employers have to take on an ever greater responsibility to support their staff in their fitness and well-being goals. In a recent survey 33% of workers admitted to being stressed by their daily routine and 49% of them put lack of exercise as their top health concern with 38% of them citing obesity levels as their no 1 health concern. These statistics are not surprising when correlated to research conducted by LA Fitness stating how 66% of people had not undertaken any form of fast pace exercise in the last 12 months, 68% are unable to do 20 sit-ups and 42% are unable to climb three flights of stairs.

The more progressive type companies, who have recognized the role that fitness can play in the workplace, will benefit on a number of different levels:

• Increased productivity with the cost of lost productivity now being pat at £100billion+
• Reduced sickness. In the UK alone over 175m working days per year are lost through illness
• Improved motivation and energy levels giving a positive working environment
• Higher level of employee loyalty in recognition of the company's efforts to support them individually
• Better team work as the benefits of social interaction in this way spill over into the workplace
• Finally an overall improvement in company culture with a happier, more motivated and energized workforce

"Prolonged pressure and stress on workers' physical and mental well-being may result in a range of health problems such as heart disease, back pain and gastro-intestinal problems i.e. IBS, ulcers, constipation"
Dr John Delfosse