Exercise may reduce stress in the workplace

1/25/2012

Employee wellness programs are designed to help an entire company get in shape, including the bosses. According to recent research conducted by scientists from Northern Illinois University, getting a little more physical activity may help supervisors have a better relationship with their staff.

NIU Today reports that researchers found that stressed out employers are less likely to take their frustrations out on their workers if they get regular exercise. The scientists surveyed a group of supervisors and their team members about their anxiety levels and behaviors both in and outside the office. They found that anxious bosses were more likely to victimize their staff, but those who engaged in moderate physical activity were less abusive to their subordinates.

According to the scientists, these findings underscore the need for effective wellness programs that encourage people to get exercise.

"Wellness programs, often inclusive of exercise components, have been advocated to control workplace stress for years. This study adds support to their specific relevancy in smoothing supervisor-subordinate relationships," stated the authors, quote by NIU Today.

The American Psychological Association states that regular exercise has been shown to help the brain better cope with stress. 

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