Research shows that being physically active benefits just about everyone: individuals of all ages and with or without chronic condi- tions or disabilities. Physical activity not only promotes health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases, but also improves sleep, perceived quality of life, and cognitive functioning, such as attention, memory, and processing speed.
Weekly targets for recommended aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity for working age population are shown in Figure 5. Nevertheless, all movement that reduces or interrupts sedentary time is valuable. Beneficial health effects can be attained, for example, by interrupting sitting with short periods of standing, by moving around a bit, and with light physical activity.
Working environment and workplace policies can encourage physical activity that aids employees to reach their weekly targets and to recover from work-related stress. Short physical activity bouts can be incorporated into the operations of the workplace and into employees’ daily work routines. This section provides examples how.
Figure 5. Physical activity recommendations for working age population.