Thanks to capitalism (Image: Getty Images)

A new survey found that 86% of workers say they spend too much time away from their desks during work hours, with 54% admitting to spending eight hours at their desks.

However, this does not seem to be the desire to sit down all day at work, with 72% saying they would like to be more active.

Magic Mountain, which creates and manages wellness campaigns for the workplace, conducted the research in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Sport and Physical Activity Management (CIMSPA). The survey found that one in three employees (34%) are afraid to leave. their desks when people think they are not working.

Furthermore, a staggering 63% only leave the house for 10 minutes or less during work hours.

This is bad news for the physical and mental health of workers, as long periods of sitting are known to be detrimental to health.

Studies show that people who spend a lot of time sitting are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, some cancers, and cardiovascular disease.

And a whopping 89% say their productivity is greatly affected by fatigue and lack of energy. So even bosses who push their employees to the limit don’t reap the benefits.

Kathy Brown, CEO of Magic Mountain, said: It needs to become an integral part of your business strategy.

“Nearly everyone we spoke to (98%) said their employer played an important role in supporting their well-being, and 64% said their well-being was supported at work. If you don’t feel like it, you’ll find another job.” .

“But only 44% of companies have a wellness strategy.

High angle view of a black female IT professional holding an apple while using a laptop at desk in a creative office

Taking adequate breaks is important (Image: Getty Images/Mascot)

As if that wasn’t enough to support the results, many of the respondents reported increased feelings of stress (81%) and anxiety (75%).

Kate said:

“I have experienced firsthand what happens when our work is incompatible with happiness. My mission is to help reverse the workplace happiness epidemic we are currently facing.

“You don’t have to choose between an important job and your health, but it happens too often.”

Interestingly, these figures don’t show that much is being done to reduce staff stress, although 65% said that feeling good is a priority for their leadership team.

Noted physiologist and Future Practice co-founder Oliver Patrick said:

Exercise stabilizes blood sugar, reduces the risk of diabetes and other diseases, and increases productivity. It has also been found to have positive effects on musculoskeletal pain, digestion, and energy levels.

“Change doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. It can be a quick stretch or a few walks an hour, but employers need to develop a culture that positively encourages it.”

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