As our lives become more sedentary, the risks associated with physical inactivity increase. According to one study, physical inactivity shortens life expectancy and increases the risk of many undesirable health conditions, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancers.
Increases in such adverse health conditions can raise health care costs for an organization and also contribute to lower productivity and poor morale for employees.
If that’s not reason enough to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, just consider some of the other benefits you’ll reap:
Exercise promotes better sleep. “I get enough sleep every night,” said no one ever. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular physical activity—as long as it doesn’t take place too close to bedtime—helps you to fall asleep faster and to deepen your sleep.
Physical activity can give you mood and energy boosts. And the better sleep you get from physical activity can also contribute to improved mood and energy levels. According to Healthline, physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, all which help to regulate mood. Regular exercise can also play a role in maintaining good mental health.
Consistent physical activity helps keep you in shape. Perhaps the most obvious benefit of exercise is preventing weight gain or allowing for maintaining weight, while also increasing strength and flexibility. If you can’t spend hours at the gym, just try to be conscious of moving more throughout the day by doing things like taking the stairs or going for a walk at lunch.
Regular aerobic exercise can actually improve your memory. In a study conducted at the University of British Columbia, researchers found regular aerobic exercise appears to boost the size of the hippocampus, the brain area involved in verbal memory and learning. The study also found regular aerobic exercise can slow cognitive decline.
When employees are encouraged and empowered to incorporate regular physical activity into their routines, businesses benefit, not just from lower health care costs but from having staff members who are more focused, energized and productive.
Organizations that realize that the financial health of a business is directly tied to the physical and emotional health of their employees turn to Ulliance Life Advisor Wellness programs to help staff members improve their health. For every $1 you invest in a wellness program, you can save $3 to $5 in health care costs, and your employees reduce risk behaviors such as smoking and overeating. How can we help you? Visit www.ulliance.com, or call 866-648-8326.