"People Who Exercise Regularly Feel Less Emotionally Exhausted at Work"

Increase in Brain Stimulation Protein Levels
Also Leads to Higher Job Satisfaction

A study has found that consistent exercise brings vitality to daily life and increases job satisfaction.

On the 21st (local time), the U.S. medical news portal 'News Medical Life Sciences' cited research from the University of Michigan, stating that workers who maintain moderate exercise are emotionally less exhausted and have higher job satisfaction compared to colleagues with low activity levels.

Members are walking for exercise at a gym located in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. This is a stock photo unrelated to the article.
Photo by Yonhap News

The research team conducted a survey on physical activity and workplace burnout among 520 full-time employees. The results showed that 23% belonged to the low activity group, 60% to the moderate activity group, and 25% to the high activity group.

They also examined differences in burnout-related factors such as emotional fatigue related to work and personal accomplishment among the groups. The group engaging in moderate exercise was found to be emotionally less exhausted and more satisfied with their work compared to the low activity group. However, increasing exercise beyond moderate levels did not further reduce emotional fatigue or enhance personal accomplishment.

The researchers stated, "Low physical activity can decrease motivation for work, leading to reduced productivity and diminished passion for tasks. This study clearly demonstrates the positive impact of physical activity on workplace life."

Moderate-intensity physical activity can promote an increase in the protein level called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF affects brain health, cognitive function, and mental health. Higher levels of BDNF can improve these functions, while lower levels increase the risk of depression, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and dementia.

This study also has significant implications for improving corporate productivity. When employers encourage employee exercise, not only do employees become happier and healthier, but productivity improves and turnover rates decrease. Providing on-site exercise facilities, offering exercise-related subsidies, and flexible work schedules can be helpful.