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Schaller A, Stassen G, Baulig L, Lange M. Physical activity interventions in workplace health promotion: objectives, related outcomes, and consideration of the setting-a scoping review of reviews. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1353119. [PMID: 38406496 PMCID: PMC10884305 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1353119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The workplace is a recognized setting for promoting health among adults, and physical activity (PA) interventions are an integral part of workplace health promotion (WHP). Objectives The present review of reviews aims to provide an overview of the main objectives and related outcomes addressed in WHP-related PA interventions, as well as the setting-specific aspects considered in the research field. Methods A scoping review of reviews was conducted. Reviews were included if they were peer-reviewed, written in English, and focused on PA interventions conducted in the context of WHP. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. Reviews were included if they had been published after the year 2000. Information on the following dimensions was extracted: author, region, number of primary studies included, target group(s), PA interventions included, main objective(s), related outcomes, and setting-specific aspects. Results A total of 17 reviews were included. Six reviews aimed at solely identifying the effectiveness of promoting daily PA and reducing sedentary behavior. Eleven reviews showed a combined approach considering physical activity behavior and/or health and job-related outcomes. Outcomes in the primary studies were heterogeneous. None of the reviews had an explicit definition of WHP and setting-specific information was very general and sparse. The reported setting-specific information was referred to the general importance of the workplace setting, the specific importance as an access route to target groups, and implementation aspects. Regarding the additional characteristics of the reviews, the selection of primary studies was restricted to a specific region in 2 of the 17 reviews in advance. Three reviews restricted the target group (sedentary workers, women, desk-based workers), while eleven reviews included working adults in general and, three reviews gave no information about the target group. Eleven intervention approaches of the reviews were behaviorally oriented, two focused solely on environmental interventions, and four reviews can be attributed to a combined approach considering behavioral and environmental interventions. Conclusion For sustainable future developments, the present results indicate a strong need for conceptual consolidation of WHP in the research field of PA interventions. Therefore, both WHP and health-related PA interventions need to take a comprehensive approach comprising behavioral and environmental interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Schaller
- Department of Human Sciences, Institute of Sport Science, University of the Bundeswehr Munich, Neubiberg, Germany
| | - Gerrit Stassen
- Institute of Movement Therapy and Movement-Oriented Prevention and Rehabilitation, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lukas Baulig
- University of Police and Public Administration of North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Lange
- Department of Fitness and Health, IST University of Applied Sciences, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Sagelv EH, Dalene KE, Eggen AE, Ekelund U, Fimland MS, Heitmann KA, Holtermann A, Johansen KR, Løchen ML, Morseth B, Wilsgaard T. Occupational physical activity and risk of mortality in women and men: the Tromsø Study 1986-2021. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:81-88. [PMID: 37914386 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Associations between occupational physical activity (OPA) and mortality risks are inconclusive. We aimed to examine associations between (1) OPA separately and (2) jointly with leisure time physical activity (LTPA), and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer mortality, over four decades with updated exposure and covariates every 6-8 years. METHODS Adults aged 20-65 years from the Tromsø Study surveys Tromsø3-Tromsø7 (1986-2016) were included. We categorised OPA as low (sedentary), moderate (walking work), high (walking+lifting work) or very high (heavy manual labour) and LTPA as inactive, moderate and vigorous. We used Cox/Fine and Gray regressions to examine associations, adjusted for age, body mass index, smoking, education, diet, alcohol and LTPA (aim 1 only). RESULTS Of 29 605 participants with 44 140 total observations, 4131 (14.0%) died, 1057 (25.6%) from CVD and 1660 (40.4%) from cancer, during follow-up (median: 29.1 years, 25th-75th: 16.5.1-35.3). In men, compared with low OPA, high OPA was associated with lower all-cause (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.92) and CVD (subdistributed HR (SHR) 0.68, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.84) but not cancer mortality (SHR 0.99, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.19), while no association was observed for moderate or very high OPA. In joint analyses using inactive LTPA and low OPA as reference, vigorous LTPA was associated with lower all-cause mortality combined with low (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.89), high (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.82) and very high OPA (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.94), but not with moderate OPA. In women, there were no associations between OPA, or combined OPA and LTPA, with mortality. CONCLUSION High OPA, but not moderate and very high OPA, was associated with lower all-cause and CVD mortality risk in men but not in women. Vigorous LTPA was associated with lower mortality risk in men with low, high and very high OPA, but not moderate OPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edvard H Sagelv
- School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Knut Eirik Dalene
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Elise Eggen
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ulf Ekelund
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marius Steiro Fimland
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Unicare Helsefort Rehabilitation Centre, Rissa, Norway
| | - Kim Arne Heitmann
- School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Sport Science and Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kristoffer Robin Johansen
- School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maja-Lisa Løchen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bente Morseth
- School of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Tom Wilsgaard
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Knappett H, Haines M. Effects of Time-Efficient Occupational Exercise on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Firefighters. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:e785-e790. [PMID: 37757773 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE For a cohort of operational firefighters, we assessed the effects of workplace-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiorespiratory fitness. METHODS Fifteen firefighters performed HIIT or moderate-intensity continuous training for 4 weeks. Outcomes were peak oxygen uptake, time trial performance, and affective (pleasure/displeasure) responses to exercise. RESULTS There was an increase in peak oxygen uptake for both conditions, although this did not reach statistical significance ( P = 0.06, η2 = 0.26) and time trial performance improved for both groups (2%, P < 0.01, η2 = 0.51). Affective responses were more favorable for HIIT, but both conditions avoided excessive sensations of displeasure. CONCLUSION Results suggest that workplace-based HIIT improved fitness and performance to a similar magnitude to moderate-intensity continuous training while avoiding overly negative affective responses and could improve occupational health of firefighters, despite reduced time commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Knappett
- From the Department of Allied Health Professions, Sport, and Exercise, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
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Christiansen HJ, Søgaard K, Justesen JB, Sjøgaard G, Dalager T. Long Term Cardiovascular Health Effects of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training Among Office Workers-A 2 Year Follow up of a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:813-819. [PMID: 37231634 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to assess long-term effects of intelligent physical exercise training (IPET) on cardiorespiratory fitness (VO 2max ) and cardiometabolic measures. METHODS Office workers were randomized to a control group (CG, n = 194) or a training group (TG, n = 193). The TG received 1-hour weekly IPET during paid working hours for 2 years and recommendations to perform 30-minute leisure time physical activity 6 d/wk (LPA). RESULTS Training group compared with CG demonstrated a significantly larger increase in VO 2max of 0.13 ± 0.06 L/min and improved cardiometabolic measures at 1-year follow-up that were maintained at 2-year follow-up, with larger increases in VO 2max among high-adherence participants. CONCLUSIONS Intelligent physical exercise training and LPA showed the potential for long-term improved VO 2max and cardiometabolic measures. These findings emphasize the effectiveness of integrating IPET during paid working hours, and the significance of adherence to training was underlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helle Joon Christiansen
- From the Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark (H.J.C., K.S., J.B.J., G.S., T.D.); and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark (H.J.C., T.D.)
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Marin-Farrona M, Wipfli B, Thosar SS, Colino E, Garcia-Unanue J, Gallardo L, Felipe JL, López-Fernández J. Effectiveness of worksite wellness programs based on physical activity to improve workers' health and productivity: a systematic review. Syst Rev 2023; 12:87. [PMID: 37226273 PMCID: PMC10207792 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02258-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the scientific literature has previously described the impact of worksite programs based on physical activity (WPPAs) on employees' productivity and health in different contexts, the effect of these programs has not been analyzed based on the characteristics or modalities of physical activity (PA) performed (e.g., aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility). In addition, studies on WPPAs usually report health and productivity outcomes separately, not integrated into a single study. Knowing the health and economic-related impacts of a WPPAs could provide useful information for stakeholders and policy development. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this review was as follows: (1) to analyze the effect of different modalities of WPPAs on employees' productivity and health and (2) to investigate the economic impact of WPPAs. METHODS This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021230626) and complies with PRISMA guidelines. Only randomized controlled trials from 1997 to March 2021 were included. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts for study eligibility, extracted the data, and performed a quality assessment using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk-of-Bias Tool for randomized trials. Population, instruments, comparison, and outcome (PICO) elements were used to define eligibility criteria. Eight-hundred sixty relevant studies were found through electronic searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases. Once the eligibility criteria were applied, a total of 16 papers were included. RESULTS Workability was the productivity variable most positively impacted by WPPAs. Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and musculoskeletal symptoms health variables improved in all the studies included. It was not possible to fully examine the effectiveness of each exercise modality because of the heterogeneity in methodology, duration, and working population. Finally, cost-effectiveness could not be analyzed because this information was not reported in most studies. CONCLUSION All types of WPPAs analyzed improved workers' productivity and health. However, the heterogeneity of WPPAs does not allow to identify which modality is more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marin-Farrona
- IGOID Research Group, Department of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Brad Wipfli
- OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97201 USA
| | - Saurabh S. Thosar
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Enrique Colino
- Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Ctra. Pozuelo-Majadahonda Km 1,800, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Garcia-Unanue
- IGOID Research Group, Department of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Leonor Gallardo
- IGOID Research Group, Department of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Jose Luis Felipe
- IGOID Research Group, Department of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Jorge López-Fernández
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Calle Tajo S/N, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain
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Väänänen I, Mas-Alòs S, Vandaele F, Codina-Nadal A, Matas S, Aumatell E, De Clerk I, Puig-Ribera A. Workplace physical activity practices in real life: a scoping review of grey literature for small- and medium-sized enterprises. Eur J Public Health 2022; 32:i22-i27. [PMID: 36031820 PMCID: PMC9421405 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a need to scale-up effective physical activity (PA) programmes for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), where the uptake of PA interventions is low. Identifying real-life workplace practices in PA could contribute to a better understanding of what PA programmes might be most grounded in the ‘real world’. However, there is a scarcity of evidence showing what gets done. This study aimed to identify, describe and comprehensively summarize the real-life implementations of workplace PA initiatives, particularly in Europe, as a prior step to disseminating future feasible PA practices for SMEs. Methods A scoping review of grey literature included a systematic search in the Google advanced search platform that permuted a combination of key concepts (PA, workplace, interventions/programmes), internet domains, and search operators in six different languages (Catalan, Finnish, French, Dutch, English and Spanish) between 2015 and November 2020. The analysis process was iterative, and multiple methods were used to sort, group and categorize the initiatives. Results There were a total of 713 real-life workplace PA initiatives from different-sized organizations identified. These were categorized into five themes: active work and living, exercise and fitness programs, management and leadership, communication and dissemination, and facilities. Finally, feature trees showing a menu for real-life workplace PA practices were implemented. Conclusions Identifying real-life practice providing a state-of-the-art snapshot of current PA practices in workplaces, which is a starting point to better understand feasible practices in the context of small- and medium-sized workplaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilkka Väänänen
- LAB University of Applied Sciences, Health Care Unit, Physical Activity and Functional Capacity Research Group, Lahti Campus, Finland
| | - Sebastià Mas-Alòs
- National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC), Lleida Campus, Catalonia, Spain.,University of Lleida (UdL), Human Movement Research Group, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Anna Codina-Nadal
- University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Sport and Physical Activity Research Group, Vic, Spain
| | - Sergi Matas
- National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC), Lleida Campus, Catalonia, Spain.,University of Lleida (UdL), Human Movement Research Group, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eva Aumatell
- Open University of Catalonia, eHealth Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ine De Clerk
- Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, Gent, Belgium
| | - Anna Puig-Ribera
- University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Centre for Health and Social Care Research, Sport and Physical Activity Research Group, Vic, Spain
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Stassen G, Baulig L, Müller O, Schaller A. Attention to Progression Principles and Variables of Exercise Prescription in Workplace-Related Resistance Training Interventions: A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials. Front Public Health 2022; 10:832523. [PMID: 35400069 PMCID: PMC8990091 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.832523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe workplace is an important setting for adult health promotion including exercise training such as resistance training (RT). Since the reporting of exercise training interventions is generally inconsistent, the objective of this systematic review was to investigate the attention to principles of RT progression and variables of RT exercise prescription in workplace-related RT interventions.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted in the databases LIVIVO, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science (2000–2020). Controlled trials with apparently healthy “employees” and a main focus on RT were included. RT principles and variables were extracted and rated by two reviewers (reported, not reported, or unclear). Sum scores for each RT intervention and percentages regarding each principle and variable were calculated.ResultsOverall, 21 articles were included (18 primary studies, 3 protocols). Summarized narratively, the interventions showed different positive effects on strength- or performance-related and/or health- or complaint-related outcomes. The reporting of the RT principles and variables was varied [progressive overload: 94% of the studies, specificity: 78%, variation (periodization): 39%, muscle action: 94%, loading: 94%, volume; 67%, exercise selection: 89%, exercise order: 47%, rest periods between sets: 33%, rest periods between exercises: 27%, repetition velocity: 44%, and frequency: 100%].ConclusionSeveral key RT principles and variables were reported inconsistently, reducing reproducibility and pointing to the need for standardized RT intervention reporting in workplace-related interventions. Exercise science and workplace promotion should be further linked, since accurate reporting is a prerequisite for transferring robust findings into practice.
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Baup Y, Vignal B, Bodet G. Sport and physical activity participation in the workplace: the role of employees' self-perception. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF WORKPLACE HEALTH MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/ijwhm-03-2021-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeDespite preventive efforts from some companies to offer some sport and physical activity (SPA) to their employees, French participation rates remain very low, which limit impacts in terms of health and economic benefits. The aim of this study was to better understand the factors influencing SPA participation in the workplace.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional study was conducted based on an electronic questionnaire survey disseminated to 24 companies based in France that offered SPA to their employees. An independent sample t-test was conducted to explore the differences between the most common facilitating and constraining factors, in relation to “being a sporty person” self-perception, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) level and demographic information. Predictors of SPA in the workplace were determined using a binomial logistic regression.FindingsA total of 1,318 employees completed the survey, of which 60% were women, mostly highly educated and white collar. “Being a sporty person,” self-perception has been a predictor of SPA participation in the workplace.Practical implicationsMore multicomponent work-based interventions, including incidental physical activity, might be necessary to increase participation and overcome time constraint.Originality/valueAlthough SPA participation in the workplace is considered to promote numerous positive organizational and individual consequences, this is the first study to assess the associations between facilitating and constraining factors of SPA participation in the workplace setting and physical self-perception.
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SantaBarbara N, Rezai R, Terry E, Shedd K, Comulada WS. Preliminary Efficacy and Acceptability of an Online Exercise and Nutrition Workplace Wellness Program: A Brief Report. Workplace Health Saf 2021; 70:90-96. [PMID: 34558353 DOI: 10.1177/21650799211037528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workplace wellness programs (WWP) offer physiological and psychological benefits to employees and financial and productivity benefits to employers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented in-person sessions and has required WWP's to transition to online platforms. The purpose of this brief report was to assess the preliminary feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a mobile version of the Bruin Health Improvement Program (BHIP mobile) WWP. METHODS Participants virtually attended (i.e., via Zoom) twice weekly physical activity sessions and a once weekly nutrition seminar for 10-weeks with the option of a 30-minute one-on-one consultation with a registered dietician. Demographics, anthropometric indices, stress, muscular endurance, and aerobic fitness were assessed at baseline and follow-up. All analyses were conducted in SPSS v. 27. RESULTS Twenty-seven participants (96% female) enrolled and 13 (100% female) completed the 10-week program. There were significant reductions in bodyweight (p < .01) and body mass index (p < .02) but not stress (p > .05), and significant increases in muscular endurance (p < .01) but not aerobic fitness (p > .05). Overall, BHIP mobile appears to be acceptable to participants but logistical concerns such as inconsistent internet connection was noted as potential downfalls. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE Improvements in health outcome among completers of a mobile WWP were promising. Completer feedback highlighted program strengths as the flexibility and comfort of attending exercise sessions and nutrition classes from home. Future versions of the program will allocate resources to improve completion and expand appeal for men and women.
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Using Focus Groups and Interviews to Inform the Design of a Workplace Exercise Programme: An Example From a High-Intensity Interval Training Intervention. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:e63-e74. [PMID: 33234874 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Using a formative evaluation of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention, we illustrate how qualitative data can inform the development of workplace exercise interventions. METHOD Eight focus groups and four interviews were conducted with employees (n = 38) and management (n = 4) from six office-based organisations before intervention implementation. RESULTS Some participants thought workplace-based HIIT would be practical, given the limited time required. Others perceived it may not be acceptable for all individuals, given the exercise intensity. With consideration of identified barriers (workload/family commitments effecting time availability) and facilitators (flexible working conditions) participants' perspectives were incorporated into the intervention protocol. A short-term group-based intervention was preferred, with a choice of exercise modes (based on stair climbing, stepping or boxing). CONCLUSION This study provides a framework to incorporate stakeholders' perspectives into the development of workplace exercise interventions.
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Hunter JR, Gordon BA, Huynh M, Benson AC. Physical Activity Participation After a 16-Week Supervised Workplace Exercise RCT With a 15-Month Follow-Up. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:e526-e532. [PMID: 34029296 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of exercise supervision on short- and longer-term moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) participation. METHODS Fifty-six Australian university employees completed a 16-week moderate-to-high intensity aerobic and resistance exercise intervention, and the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) 15 months later. Participants received either personal (SUP; n = 21) or non-personal (NPS; n = 19) exercise supervision at an onsite facility or exercised offsite with no supervision (CON; n = 16). RESULTS A linear mixed model identified a significant group × time interaction effect for MVPA, with increases at 15-month follow-up for CON only. Pooled data suggested more participants completed ≥500 MET-minutes of weekly MVPA at 16 weeks (66%) and 15-month follow-up (68%) compared to baseline (54%). CONCLUSIONS A comprehensive health and fitness assessment and individually tailored exercise without personal supervision may promote ongoing MVPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayden R Hunter
- Department of Rural Allied Health, Holsworth Research Initiative, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia (Dr Hunter and Dr Gordon); Department of Dietetics, Nutrition and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia (Dr Huynh); Department Health Sciences and Biostatistics, Sport Innovation Research Group, Swinburne University of Technology, Victoria, Australia (Dr Benson)
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Prince SA, Rasmussen CL, Biswas A, Holtermann A, Aulakh T, Merucci K, Coenen P. The effect of leisure time physical activity and sedentary behaviour on the health of workers with different occupational physical activity demands: a systematic review. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2021; 18:100. [PMID: 34284795 PMCID: PMC8290554 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-021-01166-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it is generally accepted that physical activity reduces the risk for chronic non-communicable disease and mortality, accumulating evidence suggests that occupational physical activity (OPA) may not confer the same health benefits as leisure time physical activity (LTPA). It is also unclear if workers in high OPA jobs benefit from LTPA the same way as those in sedentary jobs. Our objective was to determine whether LTPA and leisure time sedentary behaviour (LTSB) confer the same health effects across occupations with different levels of OPA. METHODS Searches were run in Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, ProQuest Public Health and Scopus from inception to June 9, 2020. Prospective or experimental studies which examined the effects of LTPA or LTSB on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal pain, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arrhythmias and depression among adult workers grouped by OPA (low OPA/sitters, standers, moderate OPA/intermittent movers, high OPA/heavy labourers) were eligible. Results were synthesized using narrative syntheses and harvest plots, and certainty of evidence assessed with GRADE. RESULTS The review includes 38 papers. Across all outcomes, except cardiovascular mortality, metabolic syndrome and atrial fibrillation, greater LTPA was consistently protective among low OPA, but conferred less protection among moderate and high OPA. For cardiovascular mortality and metabolic syndrome, higher levels of LTPA were generally associated with similar risk reductions among all OPA groups. Few studies examined effects in standers and none examined effects of LTSB across OPA groups. CONCLUSIONS Evidence suggests that LTPA is beneficial for all workers, but with larger risk reductions among those with low compared to high OPA jobs. This suggests that, in our attempts to improve the health of workers through LTPA, tailored interventions for different occupational groups may be required. More high-quality studies are needed to establish recommended levels of LTPA/LTSB for different OPA groups. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO # CRD42020191708 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Prince
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, 785 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0K9, Canada.
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
| | | | - Aviroop Biswas
- Institute for Work & Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tarnbir Aulakh
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | - Pieter Coenen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Burn NL, Weston M, Atkinson G, Graham M, Weston KL. Brief Exercise at Work (BE@Work): A Mixed-Methods Pilot Trial of a Workplace High-Intensity Interval Training Intervention. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:699608. [PMID: 34278300 PMCID: PMC8282817 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.699608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The efficacy of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for improving markers of physical fitness and cardiometabolic health is promising. The workplace is one non-laboratory setting where the effectiveness of HIIT could be explored. The aim of this study was to undertake a mixed-methods exploratory pilot trial of a workplace HIIT intervention named Brief Exercise at Work (BE@Work). Methods: Fifty-four healthy employees (mean ± standard deviation [SD] age 46 ± 10 years) from two workplaces in Northeast England were allocated to 8 weeks of thrice-weekly workplace HIIT based on boxing, stair climbing and stepping, comprising 4-7 60 s high-intensity intervals interspersed with 75 s rest (n = 30), or a no-intervention control (n = 24). The primary outcome was the change SD of predicted maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). Markers of physical fitness, cardiometabolic health and mental well-being were also measured at baseline and follow-up. Participant perceptions of the intervention were explored in post-intervention focus groups (n = 9). Results: Mean (±SD) session attendance was 82% (±15%). Mean peak heart rate across the intervention was 87% of age-predicted maximal heart rate with a within- and between-subject SD of 5.5% and 3.7%, respectively. The SD of changes in predicted VO2max was 6.6 mL·kg-1·min-1 across both groups, which can be used to inform sample size estimations for a future full trial. The control-adjusted mean increase (95% confidence interval) in predicted VO2max was 3.9 (-0.2 to 8.1) mL·kg-1·min-1, corresponding to a Cohen's D of 0.47. We also observed preliminary evidence of small to moderate effects in favour of the intervention group for non-dominant leg extensor muscle power, markers of health-related quality of life, well-being and perceived stress and small to moderate effects in favour of the controls in perceived pain, physical activity and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. During HIIT, focus group participants reported physiological responses they perceived as unpleasant or tiring (e.g., breathlessness, local muscular fatigue), but also that they felt alert and energised afterwards. Conclusion: The findings of this exploratory pilot trial support the implementation of a definitive randomised controlled trial to quantify the effectiveness of a workplace HIIT intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi L Burn
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Weston
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
| | - Greg Atkinson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Graham
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn L Weston
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Brinsley J, Girard D, Smout M, Davison K. Is yoga considered exercise within systematic reviews of exercise interventions? A scoping review. Complement Ther Med 2020; 56:102618. [PMID: 33189861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Yoga is an increasingly popular choice of exercise for the Western population, with people engaging in yoga for a range of physical and mental health and well-being reasons. The aim of this scoping review is to examine whether yoga is considered an exercise modality within relevant leading journals, as evidenced by its consideration in systematic reviews (SRs) of exercise interventions for health-related outcomes. METHODS Design: Scoping review. DATA SOURCES Three leading sources (Sports Medicine, British Journal of Sports Medicine and Cochrane Collaboration) were searched. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies: The ten most recently published systematic reviews of exercise interventions for health-related outcomes from each journal were included (N = 30) that met these criteria: systematic review studying humans participating in general exercise and measuring a health-related outcome. Exercise interventions with any specific qualifying terms (e.g. aquatic, strength, aerobic) were excluded. RESULTS The articles retrieved were published between 2007 and 2019, and collectively included 991 interventions. Seven reviews explicitly stated that yoga was to be included/excluded while twenty-three studies made no mention of how yoga was being considered in the methodology. Five studies included yoga in the search strategy, implying its inclusion. Post-hoc analyses found that the definitions of exercise in general were also variable. Exercise definition specificity was not associated with whether or not yoga was assessed for inclusion. CONCLUSIONS Systematic reviews of exercise and physical activity interventions for health-related outcomes do not consistently make clear whether or not they include or exclude yoga as a form of exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta Brinsley
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Danielle Girard
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Matthew Smout
- Justice and Society, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kade Davison
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, Allied Health and Human Performance, Adelaide, Australia
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15
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Effectiveness of Workplace Yoga Interventions to Reduce Perceived Stress in Employees: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2020; 5:jfmk5020033. [PMID: 33467249 PMCID: PMC7739364 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk5020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Work-related stress represents a relevant public health issue and solution strategies are mandatory. Yoga is a common approach to manage stress and its effectiveness has been extensively confirmed. Therefore, this study aims systematically to review the effectiveness of Yoga interventions carried out at workplace on work-related stress among employees and to assess their impact quantitatively. Springerlink, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL and PEDro databases were searched. Clinical trials comparing workplace Yoga interventions to control groups, and evaluating perceived stress as outcome measure, were assessed for eligibility. All forms and styles of Yoga were considered for the analysis. Out of 3392 initially identified, 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis; 266 participants practicing Yoga interventions at worksite were compared to 221 subjects in control group. Included studies showed "some concerns" about different domains of source of bias. Quantitative analysis showed an overall effect size of -0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.86, -0.49] in favor of Yoga intervention in reducing stress outcome measures. Hence, workplace Yoga interventions were more effective when compared to no treatment in work-related stress management. Further high-quality studies are needed to improve the validity of these results and to specify more characteristics of the Yoga intervention, such as style, volume, and frequency.
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Metcalfe RS, Atef H, Mackintosh K, McNarry M, Ryde G, Hill DM, Vollaard NBJ. Time-efficient and computer-guided sprint interval exercise training for improving health in the workplace: a randomised mixed-methods feasibility study in office-based employees. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:313. [PMID: 32164631 PMCID: PMC7068982 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8444-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The efficacy of high-intensity interval training (HIT) as a time-efficient exercise strategy for beneficially modifying risk factors for cardiovascular disease has repeatedly been demonstrated in controlled laboratory settings. However, the effectiveness of HIT in an unsupervised workplace setting has not been investigated. The objective of this study was to use mixed methods to investigate the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of a short-duration, high-intensity exercise intervention (REHIT) when applied unsupervised in a workplace setting. Methods Twenty-five office-workers (mean ± SD age: 47 ± 9 y, BMI: 27.5 ± 4.4 kg·m− 2, V̇O2max: 28 ± 7 mL·kg− 1·min− 1) completed a 6-week REHIT intervention unsupervised in their workplace (n = 13, 6 men), or acted as a no-intervention control (n = 12, 6 men). The intervention consisted of 2 sessions/week of low-intensity (~ 25 W) cycling interspersed with 2 ‘all-out’ sprints, increasing in duration from 10 to 20 s per sprint over the 6 weeks (total time-commitment: 8:40 min per session). V̇O2max was assessed pre- and post-training, whilst questionnaire-based measures of exercise enjoyment, self-efficacy, and acceptability were completed post-training. Eight participants also completed post-intervention semi-structured interviews. Results V̇O2max significantly improved in the exercise group (2.25 ± 0.75 L·min− 1 vs. 2.42 ± 0.82 L·min− 1; + 7.4%) compared to the control group (2.22 ± 0.72 L·min− 1 vs. 2.17 ± 0.74 L·min− 1; − 2.3%; time*intervention interaction effect: p < 0.01). Participants considered the REHIT intervention acceptable and enjoyable (PACES: 89 ± 17 out of 119) and were confident in their ability to continue to perform REHIT (7.8 ± 1.2 out of 9). Qualitative data revealed that REHIT offered a time-efficient opportunity to exercise, that was perceived as achievable, and which encouraged highly valued post-exercise outcomes (e.g. progress towards health/fitness benefits). Conclusions REHIT could be implemented as a feasible, effective and acceptable exercise intervention in a workplace setting, with a total time-commitment of < 20 min/week. Consideration of certain psycho-social factors and behaviour-change techniques may ensure adherence to the REHIT programme in the long term. Trial registration The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 07/05/2019 (registration: NCT03941145).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard S Metcalfe
- Applied Sports Science, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Hady Atef
- Department of Physical Therapy for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Kelly Mackintosh
- Applied Sports Science, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Melitta McNarry
- Applied Sports Science, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Gemma Ryde
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Denise M Hill
- Applied Sports Science, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Niels B J Vollaard
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
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Cheon O, Naufal G, Kash BA. When Workplace Wellness Programs Work: Lessons Learned from a Large Employer in Texas. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2019.1687366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - George Naufal
- Texas A&M University
- Houston Methodist Research Institute
| | - Bita A. Kash
- Texas A&M University
- Houston Methodist Research Institute
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Effects of a Physical Therapist Led Workplace Personal-Fitness Management Program for Manufacturing Industry Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 61:e445-e451. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Effects of Physical Exercise Training in the Workplace on Physical Fitness: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Med 2019; 49:1903-1921. [DOI: 10.1007/s40279-019-01179-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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The Association between Health-Related Fitness and Physical Activity during Weekdays: Do Fit Students Exercise More after School? SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11154127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Physically active students are more likely to be fit and learn better in school than sedentary ones. For school-aged children, it is unclear whether physical fitness level is an important determinant for student’s activity afterschool. This study examined the association between health-related physical fitness test performance and afterschool physical activity during weekdays. Participants (n = 97, 11–13 years old) completed health-related fitness tests. They wore Actigraph GT3X accelerometers for five consecutive days, recording physical activity participation during after school hours. Descriptive statistics for both afterschool physical activity and health-related fitness were summarized. Regression analyses were conducted to determine the association between variables. Participants spent most of their afterschool hours participating in sedentary behaviors (274.27 ± 66.89 min) and light physical activity (73.68 ± 51.66 min), and only 11.35 ± 16.92 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), accumulating approximately 2058.52 ± 1690.56 steps each day afterschool. The regression model explained 22.8% of the variance in afterschool MVPA, and Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) scores were the only statistically significant predictor (β = 0.47, p < 0.01). Fit students do tend to exercise more after school. Promoting physical fitness in school is an important factor for students’ afterschool physical activity participation during weekdays.
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