Four ways exercise benefits you at work

 

1. It can make you more productive

Physical activity is “cognitive candy” says developmental molecular biologist Dr John Medina. “Our evolutionary ancestors were used to walking up to 12 miles per day. This means that our brains were supported for most of our evolutionary history by Olympic-caliber [sic] bodies… We haven’t had millions of years to adapt to our sedentary lifestyle, [which] has hurt both our physical and mental health.”

Research studies have backed up Medina’s claims, demonstrating that looking after your health and wellbeing leads to noticeable improvements in productivity and performance at work.

2. It can boost your creativity and focus

Lacking inspiration? Stuck in a creative rut? Got lots of problems and no idea how to solve them? Stick your trainers on and get moving because a 2013 study by cognitive psychologist Professor Lorenza Colzato found that workers who exercised four times a week were more able to think creatively than more sedentary employees.

“We think that physical movement is good for the ability to think flexibly, but only if the body is used to being active,” says Colzato. “Otherwise, a large part of the energy intended for creative thinking goes to the movement itself. Exercising on a regular basis may thus act as a cognitive enhancer, promoting creativity in inexpensive and healthy ways.” However, the researchers noted that the creative performance of those participants who exercised fell when they were completely at rest.

3. It can open up new ways to expand your professional network

Business networking traditionally used to take place over a game of golf or a round of beers. But the UK population is becoming more health conscious; it’s estimated that one in five UK adults don’t drink alcohol, with teetotalism becoming increasingly popular among young people in particular. Gyms are soaring in popularity, too; it is estimated that one-in-seven UK people are gym members, and some are even replacing going to nightclubs with late-night exercise classes.

4. Exercising outdoors can lead to extra benefits

Choose to take your exercise outside and you’ll multiply the inherent physical and mental benefits of getting your body moving.

Results of the Urban Mind project, led by Dr Andrea Mechellio of King’s College London, reinforced the positive link between being outdoors and mental health. But the study also found that the positive effects of exposure to nature, such as going for a run or sitting in a park, can last for up to seven hours after the experience – so if you’re thinking twice about walking to work or taking a stroll at lunchtime, think about how good it could make you feel for the rest of the day.

SOURCE:ciphr.com