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Ritter Y, Pfister D, Steckhan GM, Voelter-Mahlknecht S, Weber B, Ellegast R, Koch C, Bausch F, Gruber M, Schwenk M. The work Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise program for preventing functional decline in employees aged 55 years and older: development and initial evaluation. Eur Rev Aging Phys Act 2024; 21:21. [PMID: 39107685 PMCID: PMC11304822 DOI: 10.1186/s11556-024-00356-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the global increase in older employees, workplace physical activity interventions (WPAIs) for this target group have not yet been sufficiently developed. The major drawback of existing WPAIs is low adherence due to lack of time or limited motivation. A novel approach could be to integrate tailored neuromotor and strength exercises into everyday working tasks to prevent the functional decline of older employees at the workplace without needing much additional time for training. This approach was tested in the present study by evaluating the proof-of-concept of a novel WPAI based on the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program integrated into a working environment (wLiFE55 +). METHODS The proof-of-concept of wLiFE55 + was quantified within a 4-week pre-post exercise intervention study by measuring (1) feasibility including adherence, activity frequency, adverse events and acceptance (integrability of wLiFE55 + activities, perceived improvement and safety, satisfaction, physical demand, personal trainer session, intervention content) and (2) pre-to-post changes in neuromotor function (12-Level Balance Scale, 12-LBS; Community Balance and Mobility Scale, CBM), strength (60sec Chair Stand Test), and PA (1-week activity monitoring). For statistical analysis, the median and interquartile range (IQR) were computed. For pre-to-post changes, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests with effect size (r) were also performed. RESULTS Seventeen older employees (mean age 59 years, 8 female) were included of which fifteen completed the study. The intervention adherence was 100%, and the activity adherence was 58% (9 out of 12 maximum possible wLiFE55 + activities implemented). Depending on the specific activity, the frequency of practice ranged between 25-75% of the days of the intervention period, and single wLiFE55 + activities were practiced between one and three times per day. No adverse events occurred, and acceptance was high. Pre-to-post increases with medium effect sizes were found for neuromotor function (CBM, 12-LBS) and specific PA variables (total sedentary time, sedentary bouts > 30 min). CONCLUSION The results of the study highlight the feasibility of wLiFE55 + in a work setting with older employees. The pre-to-post increases observed in neuromotor measures and reductions in sedentary time suggest that wLiFE55 + may counteract the age-related functional decline in older employees and justifies future studies in this field. The next steps are program adjustments to boost exercise frequency and evaluating wLiFE55 + in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Ritter
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Constance, 78464, Germany.
| | - Diana Pfister
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Constance, 78464, Germany
| | - Greta M Steckhan
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität Zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany
| | - Susanne Voelter-Mahlknecht
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität Zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany
| | - Britta Weber
- Institute for Occupational Health and Safety of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Rolf Ellegast
- Institute for Occupational Health and Safety of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | | | - Frank Bausch
- Managing Business Analyst, Capgemini, Cologne, Germany
| | - Markus Gruber
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Constance, 78464, Germany
| | - Michael Schwenk
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Constance, 78464, Germany
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Teixeira DS, Bastos V, Andrade AJ, Palmeira AL, Ekkekakis P. Individualized pleasure-oriented exercise sessions, exercise frequency, and affective outcomes: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2024; 21:85. [PMID: 39103923 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-024-01636-0] [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] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Affective responses are increasingly recognized as potentially effective intervention targets that may facilitate exercise and physical activity behavior change. While emerging correlational evidence suggests that more pleasant affective responses are associated with higher participation and adherence, experimental evidence remains scarce. In light of this, we conducted a preregistered, pragmatic, single-blinded, superiority randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups, with the goal of determining the impact of an individualized exercise-intensity prescription targeting pleasure on exercise frequency. METHODS Forty-seven non-regular exercisers were randomized into two groups. For both groups, the intervention consisted of three exercise sessions based on the Frequency-Intensity-Time-Type (FITT) principle. However, the experimental group also received an individualized intensity prescription based on prior assessment of preference for and tolerance of exercise intensity, as well as instructions emphasizing the promotion of pleasure as a basis for self-regulating exercise intensity. The primary outcome was gymnasium attendance over an eight-week follow-up period. Secondary outcomes were affective valence and arousal, post-exercise enjoyment, core affective exercise experiences, and anticipated and remembered affect. RESULTS Forty-six participants were retained for analysis (Mage = 32.00; SD = 8.62 years; 56.5% female). Compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited 77% higher session attendance (14.35 vs. 8.13 sessions) over the eight-week follow-up period (group main effect p = .018, η2p = .120; Cohen's d ranged from 0.28 to 0.91 during follow-up). Also, the experimental group reported higher levels of pleasure during the intervention sessions (for all group main effects, p < .001, η2p from .33 to .37) and higher levels of remembered pleasure (group main effect p = .021, η2p = .116) and anticipated pleasure (group main effect p = .022, η2p = .114). No harm was detected. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of an intervention aimed at enhancing affective responses to exercise in improving short-term session attendance. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrial.gov NCT05416593.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo S Teixeira
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Research Center in Sport, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health (CIDEFES), Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Vasco Bastos
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Center in Sport, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health (CIDEFES), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana J Andrade
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Center in Sport, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health (CIDEFES), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - António L Palmeira
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Center in Sport, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health (CIDEFES), Lisbon, Portugal
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García-Álvarez D, Sempere-Rubio N, Faubel YR. Evaluaciones económicas en promoción de la actividad física: una revisión sistemática. Glob Health Promot 2024:17579759241245413. [PMID: 39086317 DOI: 10.1177/17579759241245413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David García-Álvarez
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Facultad de Fisioterapia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | - Núria Sempere-Rubio
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Facultad de Fisioterapia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | - Y Raquel Faubel
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Facultad de Fisioterapia, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, España
- Unidad de Investigación Conjunta en Ingeniería Biomédica, IIS La Fe-Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, España
- PTinMOTION, Fisioterapia en movimiento, Grupo de Investigación Multiespecialidad, Departamento de Fisioterapia, Universitat de València, Valencia, España
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Wongsingha N, Widyastari DA, Chokthananukoon B, Rasri N, Katewongsa P. Assessing physical activity promotion in different settings and how its associated with public participation during COVID-19 epidemic: evidence from national policy evaluation. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1775. [PMID: 37700247 PMCID: PMC10496167 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16690-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various interventions, programs and policies have been implemented to improve physical activity (PA) levels worldwide. However, countries continue to face barriers and challenges in achieving their targets. To date, there is a lack of study on the evaluation of physical activity (PA) promotion and how it's associated with public participation. METHODS This study assessed PA promotion in eight different settings in terms of policy availability, policy implementation, and public participation in PA programs. Policy availability was assessed by reviewing 384 policy and strategy documents, rules, regulations, legislation, and guidelines on PA. We scored the documents by using the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity (CAPPA) framework. Data to assess policy implementation and public participation were taken from the Thailand Report Card Survey 2021 (TRC2021), and the Thailand Surveillance on Physical Activity (SPA) 2021. Both surveys comprised over 5,000 nationally-representative samples from on-screen, face-to-face interviews, and an online self-administered survey. We scored the policy implementation and public participation based on respondents' response towards policy implementation and participation indicators. A grading scheme was applied to indicate how successful an investment has been made. RESULTS Public education and mass media received the highest average score in policy availability, implementation and public participation in PA program (67.9%, grade B), followed by active urban design (66.1%, grade B-) and active transport (63.7%, grade B-). Workplace, whole-of-school, and community-wide initiatives were the investments with the lowest scores, implying low availability, limited implementation, and less accessibility to public. Females were less likely to participate in active transport, active urban design, sports/recreation for all, workplace activity, and community-wide initiatives. Age and educational attainment were consistent predictors of utilization in all investments. CONCLUSIONS With varying degrees of policy availability and accessibility, public participation in PA investments is likely to be constrained by biological and socioeconomic inequality. Future investments should aim at providing generalized or tailored interventions to ensure equal access and participation for all segments of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narakorn Wongsingha
- Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Centre (TPAK), Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
| | - Dyah Anantalia Widyastari
- Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Centre (TPAK), Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
| | - Burathep Chokthananukoon
- Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Centre (TPAK), Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
| | - Niramon Rasri
- Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Thung Maha Mek, Sathorn, Bangkok, 10120 Thailand
| | - Piyawat Katewongsa
- Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Centre (TPAK), Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
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Atará-Piraquive ÁP, Forero-Suárez LL, Cárdenas-Martinez JF, Cantor-Cutiva LC. Effect of an online Workplace Vocal Health and Low Stress Levels Promotion Program implemented in a Colombian university during COVID-19 pandemic. Codas 2023; 35:e20220052. [PMID: 37672412 PMCID: PMC10547140 DOI: 10.1590/2317-1782/20232022052] [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] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the effect of an online Workplace Vocal Health and Low Stress Levels (WVHLS) Promotion Program implemented in a Colombian university during COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This research was a quasi-experimental study. Twenty-nine professors participated in this study within two groups: (1) intervention group (n=17) or (2) non-intervention group (n=12). Participants in the intervention group took part in four virtual sessions about how to improve vocal health and strategies to reduce stress levels during their homeworking and online classes. Teachers filled in a questionnaire including questions about working conditions, work-related stress, and the voice functioning (including the Vocal Fatigue Index-VFI). They also recorded a voice sample of a sustained vowel on two separate occasions (before and after the follow-up). RESULTS At the end of the follow-up, there was a tendency to reduce Factor 1 of VFI in the intervention group. Although, all participants had a longer MPT at the end of the study compared with the baseline measures, males in the intervention group had longer MPT compared with other participants. CONCLUSION Our results suggest a positive effect of a WVHLS promotion program on reducing vocal fatigue perception measured by means of the Vocal Fatigue Index and improving coordination and control of breathing speech measured MPT. These changes at the end of the follow-up may indicate that holistic programs that include voice care recommendations, breathing exercises, vocal warm-up, cold-down and laryngeal relaxation vocal exercises, and stress management may be beneficial for reducing work-related stress and voice symptoms among professors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leidy Lorena Forero-Suárez
- Departamento de Salud de Colectivos, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | - Lady Catherine Cantor-Cutiva
- Departamento de Salud de Colectivos, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Bogotá, Colombia.
- Communicative Sciences and Disorders Department, Michigan State University - East Lansing (MI), United States of America.
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Aegerter AM, Deforth M, Volken T, Johnston V, Luomajoki H, Dressel H, Dratva J, Ernst MJ, Distler O, Brunner B, Sjøgaard G, Melloh M, Elfering A. A Multi-component Intervention (NEXpro) Reduces Neck Pain-Related Work Productivity Loss: A Randomized Controlled Trial Among Swiss Office Workers. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2023; 33:288-300. [PMID: 36167936 PMCID: PMC9514678 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-022-10069-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Neck pain is common among office workers and leads to work productivity loss. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a multi-component intervention on neck pain-related work productivity loss among Swiss office workers. Methods Office workers, aged 18-65 years, and without serious neck-related health problems were recruited from two organisations for our stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial. The 12-week multi-component intervention included neck exercises, health-promotion information, and workplace ergonomics. The primary outcome of neck pain-related work productivity loss was measured using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire and expressed as percentages of working time. In addition, we reported the weekly monetary value of neck pain-related work productivity loss. Data was analysed on an intention-to-treat basis using a generalized linear mixed-effects model. Results Data from 120 participants were analysed with 517 observations. At baseline, the mean age was 43.7 years (SD 9.8 years), 71.7% of participants were female (N = 86), about 80% (N = 95) reported mild to moderate neck pain, and neck pain-related work productivity loss was 12% of working time (absenteeism: 1.2%, presenteeism: 10.8%). We found an effect of our multi-component intervention on neck pain-related work productivity loss, with a marginal predicted mean reduction of 2.8 percentage points (b = -0.27; 95% CI: -0.54 to -0.001, p = 0.049). Weekly saved costs were Swiss Francs 27.40 per participant. Conclusions: Our study provides evidence for the effectiveness of a multi-component intervention to reduce neck pain-related work productivity loss with implications for employers, employees, and policy makers.Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04169646. Registered 15 November 2019-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04169646 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Martina Aegerter
- Institute of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina Sulzer-Platz 9, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Manja Deforth
- Institute of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina Sulzer-Platz 9, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Department of Biostatistics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Volken
- Institute of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina Sulzer-Platz 9, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Venerina Johnston
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD Australia
| | - Hannu Luomajoki
- Institute of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Holger Dressel
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Dratva
- Institute of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina Sulzer-Platz 9, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus Josef Ernst
- Institute of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain, School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beatrice Brunner
- Winterthur Institute of Health Economics, School of Management and Law, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Sjøgaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Markus Melloh
- Institute of Public Health, School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina Sulzer-Platz 9, 8400 Winterthur, Switzerland
- Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington – Te Herenga Waka, Wellington, New Zealand
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, WA Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA Australia
| | - Achim Elfering
- Institute of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Otto CM. Heartbeat: cardiovascular risk is reduced by leisure-time, but not occupational, physical activity. Heart 2023; 109:651-653. [PMID: 37045471 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2023-322701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M Otto
- Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Amatori S, Ferri Marini C, Gobbi E, Sisti D, Giombini G, Rombaldoni R, Rocchi MBL, Lucertini F, Federici A, Perroni F, Calcagnini G. Short High-Intensity Interval Exercise for Workplace-Based Physical Activity Interventions: A Systematic Review on Feasibility and Effectiveness. Sports Med 2023; 53:887-901. [PMID: 36840913 PMCID: PMC10036456 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01821-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workplace exercise interventions showed good results, but lack of time was often reported as a barrier to participation. To overcome this problem, several studies attempted to implement short high-intensity interval training (HIT) within the workplace. OBJECTIVES The aim of this systematic review is to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of HIT interventions within the workplace setting. DATA SOURCES A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and SPORTDiscus to identify articles related to HIT within the workplace. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Only interventions that consisted of HIT programmes within the workplace and tested at least one physiological, psychological, or work-related outcome were included. RESULTS Seven studies (317 participants) met the inclusion criteria. HIT interventions lasted 6-12 weeks, with a frequency of 2-4 sessions/week and a duration of 8-30 min per session. Feasibility was qualitatively investigated in four studies, with key positive aspects reported for HIT time-appeal, the sense of competence driven by individual intensity, and improved intention to exercise; five studies reported adherence rates > 80%. Small-to-large effect sizes were reported for improvements in cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness. Small-to-medium effect sizes were reported for blood parameters and health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS HIT interventions in the workplace showed limited effectiveness in improving health-related outcomes, while promising results regarding feasibility were reported, mainly due to the time-efficiency and the positive post-exercise psychosocial responses. However, further high-quality studies involving more participants are still needed to make firm conclusions on HIT effectiveness and feasibility compared to other types of exercise in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Amatori
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferri Marini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Erica Gobbi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Davide Sisti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Germana Giombini
- Department of Economics, Social Science, and Politics, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Rosalba Rombaldoni
- Department of Economics, Social Science, and Politics, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Marco B L Rocchi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Francesco Lucertini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Ario Federici
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Perroni
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Dell'Annunziata 4, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Giorgio Calcagnini
- Department of Economics, Social Science, and Politics, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
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Chappel SE, Naweed A, Chapman J, Vandelanotte C, Holtermann A, Straker L. Can occupational health professionals successfully apply the Goldilocks Work Paradigm in a simulated work redesign? ERGONOMICS 2023; 66:153-166. [PMID: 35443875 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2067357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess occupational health professionals' application of the Goldilocks Work Paradigm in redesigning jobs for healthier physical behaviours while maintaining productivity. During a group simulation exercise, participants (n = 16) created job descriptions for four different occupation cases (factory worker, office worker, teacher, train driver) and then redesigned the jobs using the Paradigm. Substantial changes in the time spent in sitting (9-30%), standing (8-42%), walking (6-14%), and high-intensity (0-24%) physical behaviours were achieved, which if implemented would likely result in enhanced health for workers. Overall, occupational health professionals were able to successfully redesign fictitious jobs aligned with the Goldilocks Work Paradigm. The simulation task used in this study may be useful to train professionals and assist workplaces to understand and implement the Goldilocks Work Paradigm into practice.Practitioner summary: This study assessed whether occupational health professionals could be trained in the Goldilocks Work Paradigm through a job redesign simulation task. Participants were able to redesign jobs to achieve a healthier 'just right' balance of physical behaviours. Simulations may help workplaces understand and implement a Goldilocks Work approach into practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E Chappel
- Appleton Institute, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anjum Naweed
- Appleton Institute, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Janine Chapman
- Appleton Institute, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Adelaide, Australia
- National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Corneel Vandelanotte
- Physical Activity Research Group, Appleton Institute, Central Queensland University, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leon Straker
- School of Allied Health and enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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10
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Cuthbertson CC, Moore CC, Evenson KR. Paradox of occupational and leisure-time physical activity associations with cardiovascular disease. Heart 2023; 109:heartjnl-2022-321856. [PMID: 36593098 PMCID: PMC10314960 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2022-321856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C Cuthbertson
- Health Education and Promotion, East Carolina University College of Health and Human Performance, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christopher C Moore
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Ekkekakis P, Biddle SJH. Extraordinary claims in the literature on high-intensity interval training (HIIT): IV. Is HIIT associated with higher long-term exercise adherence? PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2023; 64:102295. [PMID: 37665824 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2022.102295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Nonadherence to and dropout from regular exercise and physical activity are important reasons why the field of exercise science has yet to fulfill its promise of improving public health on a global scale. Researchers have claimed that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a feasible and sustainable exercise modality that may result in higher long-term adherence than moderate-intensity continuous exercise. If true, this would be a breakthrough discovery that could unlock the potential of exercise as a health-promoting intervention. We performed a systematic search of the literature and identified eight trials comparing HIIT to moderate-intensity continuous exercise, all of which involved follow-up periods of at least 12 months (i.e., SWIFT, Small Steps for Big Changes, SAINTEX-CAD, SMARTEX-HF, Generation 100, FITR, OptimEx-Clin, HITTS). Findings from these trials demonstrate that, while unsupervised, individuals initially assigned to HIIT tend to exercise at lower-than-prescribed intensities and HIIT groups demonstrate no advantage in long-term adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stuart J H Biddle
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Australia
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Oestergaard AS, Sandal LF, Smidt TF, Søgaard K. Intelligent Physical Exercise Training (IPET) in the offshore wind industry: a feasibility study with an adjusted conceptual model. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:152. [PMID: 35870979 PMCID: PMC9308937 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01106-z] [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] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Good physical health and capacity is a requirement for offshore wind service technicians (WTs) who have substantial physical work demands and are exposed to numerous health hazards. Workplace physical exercise has shown promise for improving physical health and work ability among various occupational groups. Therefore, we aimed to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of Intelligent Physical Exercise Training (IPET) among WTs in the offshore wind industry.
Methods
A within-subject design was used to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of IPET (one hour/week individualized exercise during working hours). The intervention period was 12 weeks, with the first eight weeks performed on site as supervised or partly supervised exercise during work hours and the last four weeks planned as home-administered exercise after the seasonal offshore service period. Three assessments, T1 (six months prior to intervention start), T2 (start of intervention) and T3 (end of intervention), of physical health and capacity (self-reported and objective measurements) were conducted and the period between T1 and T2 served as a within-subject control period. Primary outcome was feasibility measured as compliance, adherence, adverse events, and participant acceptability. Descriptive statistics were used to present feasibility outcomes. Preliminary efficacy was reported as mean differences with 95% confidence intervals for health and physical capacity outcomes between T1 and T2, between T2 and T3 and between T1 and T3.
Results
All WTs at the included wind farm (n=24, age: 40 years (SD±8)) participated in the study. No serious adverse events were reported. Compliance and adherence of 95 and 80% respectively, were reached in the eight-week supervised part, but were lower when exercise was home-administered (<20%). Acceptability was high for the supervised part, with 83% indicating that the exercise program worked well and 100% that exercise should be implemented as an integrated part of the working structure. Changes in physical capacity and health indicators, such as VO2max (ml O2/kg/min) at T1 (38.6 (SD±7.2)), T2 (44.1 (SD±9)) and T3 (45.8 (SD±6.5)), may indicate seasonal fluctuations as well as improvements from the intervention.
Conclusion
On-site Intelligent Physical Exercise Training during working hours was feasible and well received among WTs in the offshore wind industry. The proceeding of larger-scale evaluation and implementation is therefore recommended.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov
(Identifier: NCT04995718). Retrospectively registered on August 6, 2021,
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Cardiovascular disease prevention in the worksite: Where are we? Int J Cardiol 2022; 368:104-107. [PMID: 35964848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The current guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology on cardiovascular (CV) disease prevention highlighted the importance of implementing coordinated set of action, including worksite, aimed at eliminating or minimizing the impact of CV disease and their related disabilities. Workplace wellness programs tend to focus on modifiable risk factors of non-communicable disease, such as nutrition, physical activity, and smoking cessation. However, nowadays, corporate wellness programs are still rare and incomplete, and usually received limited attention. This represents a big public health issue since company health and wellness interventions may provide an important opportunity to identify and manage CV risk. Given the increasing of employees' average age, a progressive shifting of retirement age and an increased number of chronic diseases, these preventive programs will increasingly represent key factors of both employee's health and economic strategies of companies in the near future.
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Di Sebastiano KM, Lau EY, Yun L, Faulkner G. An Evaluation of a Commercialized mHealth Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in the Workplace. Front Public Health 2022; 10:740350. [PMID: 35372253 PMCID: PMC8964520 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.740350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background UPnGO with ParticipACTION (UPnGO) was a commercialized 12-month workplace physical activity intervention, aimed at encouraging employees to sit less and move more at work. Its design took advantage of the ubiquitous nature of mobile fitness trackers and aimed to be implemented in any office-based workplace in Canada. The program was available at cost from June 2017 to April 2020. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the program and identify key lessons from the commercialization of UPnGO. Methods Using a quasi-experimental design over 3 time points: baseline, 6 months, 12 months, five evaluation indicators were measured as guided by the RE-AIM framework. Reach was defined as the number and percentage of employees who registered for UPnGO and the number and percentage of sedentary participants registered. Effectiveness was assessed through average daily step count. Adoption was determined by workplace champion and senior leadership responses to the off-platform survey. Implementation was assessed as the percentage of participants who engaged with specific program elements at the 3-evaluation time points. Maintenance was assessed by the number of companies who renewed their contracts for UPnGO. Results Reach across 17 organizations, 1980 employees participated in UPnGO, with 27% of participants identified as sedentary at baseline. Effectiveness Daily step count declined from 7,116 ± 3,558 steps at baseline to 6,969 ± 6,702 (p = <0.001) at 12 months. Adoption Workplace champion and senior leadership engagement declined from 189 to 21 and 106 to 5 from baseline to 12 months, respectively. Maintenance Two companies renewed their contracts beyond the first year. Conclusions The commercialization of UPnGO was an ambitious initiative that met with limited success; however, some key lessons can be generated from the attempt. The workplace remains an important environment for PA interventions but effective mHealth PA programs may be difficult to implement and sustain long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Di Sebastiano
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom.,Population and Physical Activity Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Erica Y Lau
- Vancouver Costal Health Research Centre, Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lira Yun
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Guy Faulkner
- Population and Physical Activity Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Invernizzi PL, Signorini G, Scurati R, Michielon G, Benedini S, Bosio A, Staiano W. The UP150: A Multifactorial Environmental Intervention to Promote Employee Physical and Mental Well-Being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031175. [PMID: 35162197 PMCID: PMC8834533 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is a major health factor and studies suggest workplaces could promote PA by modifying office design, motivational strategies and technology. The present study aims to evaluate the efficiency of UP150, a multifactorial workplace intervention for the improvement and maintenance of the level of physical fitness (PF) and wellbeing. Forty-five employees were randomly divided into the experimental (EG) and control (CG) groups. The PF was assessed pre-post intervention using the cubo fitness test (CFT), the amount of PA was evaluated using the IPAQ questionnaire and accelerometers while the workload was assessed using the NASA-TLX questionnaire and psycho-physical health by using the SF-12 questionnaire. The EG worked in UP150 offices while the CG worked in their usual offices for 8 weeks. The EG and CG came back 4 weeks after the intervention for CFT retention. The EG improved CFT motor efficiency and the amount of moderate PA, while it reduced mental load. The EG retained reached motor efficiency levels 4 weeks after the intervention. No differences were found in IPAQ. The UP150 demonstrated to be a proactive environment and to be efficient in the promotion of PA, improving PF and mental health while decreasing mental load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Luigi Invernizzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy; (P.L.I.); (G.S.); (R.S.); (G.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Gabriele Signorini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy; (P.L.I.); (G.S.); (R.S.); (G.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Raffaele Scurati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy; (P.L.I.); (G.S.); (R.S.); (G.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Giovanni Michielon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy; (P.L.I.); (G.S.); (R.S.); (G.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefano Benedini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy; (P.L.I.); (G.S.); (R.S.); (G.M.); (S.B.)
- Polispecialistic Clinique San Carlo Srl., 20037 Paderno Dugnano, Italy
| | - Andrea Bosio
- Human Performance Laboratory, Mapei Sport Research Centre, 21057 Olgiate Olona, Italy;
| | - Walter Staiano
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Does Childcare Work Promote Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Health? A Cross-Sectional Study of Danish Childcare Workers Based on Accelerometry and Heart Rate Measurements. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312496. [PMID: 34886220 PMCID: PMC8656773 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Childcare workers are reported to have poor cardiorespiratory fitness and health. The Goldilocks Work Principle argues that productive work should be designed with the right composition, intensity and alternations of physical behaviors so that workers get fit and healthy. The purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) composition, (2) intensity and (3) alternations of physical behaviors during work and leisure among childcare workers. Data were collected using accelerometers and heart rate monitors over five workdays among 51 childcare workers at five Danish childcare institutions. Workers mainly spent their work time sedentary (43.0%), spent little time (0.7%) at sufficiently high cardiometabolic intensity to increase cardiorespiratory fitness and often alternated between physical behaviors (67.0% occurred in bouts of <5 min). These findings indicate that the workers have a composition of behaviors at work dominated by sedentary time, little time with high cardiometabolic intensity, and frequent alternations between behaviors. During leisure, workers spent more time sedentary (59.4%), more time at high cardiometabolic intensity (3.4%) and less time occurred in bouts <5 min (38.7%). We see a potential for promoting cardiorespiratory fitness and health of childcare workers by redesigning the way they play with the children, so that work time with high cardiometabolic intensity is increased.
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Impact Model-Based Physical-Activity Promotion at the Workplace: Study Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Study in Germany (KomRueBer Study). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116074. [PMID: 34199934 PMCID: PMC8200228 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is great potential for the implementation of physical-activity measures at the workplace, especially in smaller companies. The present paper describes the study protocol for evaluating an impact-model-based multicomponent intervention promoting physical activity at the workplace within a cross-company network. The evaluation is based on a logic model focusing on outputs and short-term outcomes for the purpose of physical-activity promotion, physical-activity-related health competence, and knowledge about physical activity. A mixed-methods approach is applied. The quantitative evaluation is conducted as a natural design, and combines a retrospective evaluation of the acceptance, usage, and satisfaction (output) at the end of the measures, and two surveys that capture physical activity, knowledge about physical activity, and physical-activity-related health competence (outcome) of the employees in the form of a trend study. The qualitative evaluation comprises semistructured interviews to investigate knowledge of the existence of and attitude towards the content of the multicomponent intervention and the study. The challenges evaluating complex interventions are widely debated. Through an impact-model-based approach, the study will provide a promising framework for the systematic evaluation of a multicomponent intervention promoting physical activity.
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Development and Implementation of 'Just Right' Physical Behavior in Industrial Work Based on the Goldilocks Work Principle-A Feasibility Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094707. [PMID: 33925078 PMCID: PMC8125316 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Goldilocks Work Principle expresses that productive work should be redesigned to comprise physical behaviors of different intensities in a composition promoting workers' health and fitness. This study is the first to assess the feasibility of redesigning work in an industrial setting according to the Goldilocks Work Principle. We recruited workers (n = 20) from a brewery in Denmark, and we conducted a participatory 16-week intervention including a workshop and two consultations. The workshop aimed to support the workers in modifying their work, while the consultations assisted the eventual implementation. Feasibility was evaluated as per three aspects: (1) developing modifications of work, (2) implementing these modifications, and (3) changing physical behavior and self-reported fatigue, pain and energy. The three aspects were addressed through records completed by the workers, measurements of workers' physical behavior and intensity during 'control' workdays (i.e., usual work) and 'intervention' workdays (i.e., modified work), and self-reported fatigue, pain and energy level following both types of workday. Five modifications to work were developed, and three of these five modifications were implemented. To some extent, physical behavior and intensity changed as intended during 'intervention' workdays compared to 'control' workdays. Workers were also less fatigued, had less pain, and had more energy after 'intervention' workdays. These results suggest that it is feasible to develop and implement modified work based on the Goldilocks Work Principle among industrial workers. However, we also identified several barriers to the implementation of such modifications.
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