Work Break Exercises Boost Efficiency by 15%
Are you rushing through work all day, feeling dizzy and overwhelmed? Do you easily snap at coworkers? Perhaps you need to squeeze in some exercise during busy times. According to a report by MSNBC, British researchers found that exercising during work hours not only improves productivity but also alleviates work stress.
This study was led by Professor Jim McKenna of Leeds University’s School of Exercise and Health Sciences. Researchers selected 200 employees from a university, a computer company, and a life insurance firm. Participants could choose whether to exercise during breaks, then completed questionnaires assessing links between exercise and job performance and mood.
Results showed that 60% of participants reported improved time management, mental sharpness, and task completion ability on days they exercised during breaks—boosting overall work efficiency by 15%. This finding was presented at a recent conference of the American College of Sports Medicine.
The benefits of exercise on efficiency were independent of intensity or duration. Participants could choose any preferred activity—most opted for 30–60 minutes of yoga, aerobic exercise, strength training, or basketball after lunch—with similar positive outcomes.
Participants rated their moods both morning and afternoon. As Professor McKenna predicted, exercise improved emotional well-being. In group discussions, many said exercise helped them better handle work challenges and pressure. “After exercising, people became more tolerant toward themselves and others, less prone to anger, shouting, or slamming phones.” Post-exercise afternoon fatigue was also reduced. Additionally, employees felt more satisfied with their day’s work upon returning home.
Public health experts emphasize that integrating exercise into work life greatly benefits health. Even short bursts—such as a few minutes of brisk walking or taking stairs instead of elevators—can bring tangible benefits. McKenna hopes his findings will encourage companies to offer exercise opportunities, such as inviting yoga instructors to lead sessions in meeting rooms or building fully equipped gyms. “This can boost employee morale and reduce absenteeism-related losses.”