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Changes in work affect in response to lunchtime walking in previously physically inactive employees: A randomized
C Thøgersen-Ntoumani1, E A Loughren2, F-E Kinnafick3
1School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|January 7, 2015
Summary
Daily lunchtime walks positively impacted employees' work affect, boosting enthusiasm and relaxation. This study highlights the benefits of physical activity for workplace well-being and performance.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Physical activity's role in regulating work affect needs controlled investigation.
- Previous research often relies on retrospective self-reports, limiting accuracy.
- Understanding momentary work affect is crucial for employee well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of lunchtime walks on immediate work affect.
- To analyze effects at both individual and group levels.
- To provide controlled evidence on physical activity and workplace emotions.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial with 56 physically inactive employees.
- Intervention group participated in 10 weeks of 30-minute group-led lunchtime walks.
- Twice-daily affective reports collected via mobile phones; multilevel modeling used for analysis.
Main Results:
- Lunchtime walks significantly improved work enthusiasm and relaxation.
- Nervousness levels also showed changes, with differing patterns in between-group vs. within-person analyses.
- The intervention demonstrated effectiveness in altering specific affective states.
Conclusions:
- Group-led lunchtime walks can positively influence employees' momentary work affect.
- Findings suggest physical activity interventions can enhance workplace well-being.
- Implications for public health and organizational performance are considerable.
