In 2017, a pilot study conducted by Pauline Manon Genin and colleagues has revealed the positive impact of a structured physical activity program on the health and fitness of office employees. The study, which involved 95 participants, aimed to explore the effects of regular exercise in a workplace setting on various health indicators, including body composition, physical fitness, and overall well-being.

Participants were divided into three groups: a control group (CON), a novice group (NOV), and an experienced group (EXP). The NOV and EXP groups engaged in a 5-month worksite physical activity program that included at least two exercise sessions per week. Researchers monitored a variety of health metrics, such as body fat percentage, physical activity levels, fitness performance, eating habits, perceived health, sleep quality, pain levels, and overall quality of life.

The results were striking. Both the novice and experienced participants experienced a significant reduction in fat mass. Additionally, improvements in physical fitness were observed, as evidenced by increased distances in the six-minute walking test and enhanced performance in exercises such as push-ups and squat jumps. Novice participants, in particular, reported better eating habits, improved perceptions of their health, enhanced sleep quality, and a higher overall physical activity level.

The study demonstrates that implementing physical activity programs at work can lead to measurable health benefits for employees, making it a feasible and effective approach to improving the well-being of office workers.

Reference: Genin, P. M., Degoutte, F., Finaud, J., Pereira, B., Thivel, D., & Duclos, M. (2017). Effect of a 5-month worksite physical activity program on tertiary employees overall health and fitness. Journal of occupational and environmental medicine, 59(2), e3-e10.