Good fitness reduces sick leave and improves work ability

Employees in the top third of fitness levels had three times fewer sick days compared to those in the lowest third. Similarly, good or average fitness was associated with better work ability. This was revealed in a cross-sectional study by the UKK Institute and the City of Nokia, which investigated the links between physical activity, fitness, sick leave, work ability, and quality of life.

Sick leave causes significant costs to society each year. According to Finland’s largest pension insurer, Keva, sick leave among municipal and welfare sector employees resulted in costs of approximately €1.2 billion last year. Regular physical activity and good fitness have been shown to enhance productivity by reducing the risk of various diseases, which in turn is linked to fewer sick days and improved perceived work ability.

Three times fewer sick days for those with good fitness

Healthy and able workers are the greatest asset to any employer, making it beneficial for employers to encourage physical activity during both work hours and leisure time. This was reinforced by the joint study from the UKK Institute and the City of Nokia, which examined the connection between physical activity, cardiovascular fitness, sick leave, work ability, and quality of life.

The study found that employees in the top third of fitness levels had three times fewer sick days compared to those in the lowest third. In monetary terms, the median cost of sick leave was 67% lower for those in the highest fitness group compared to the lowest.

The study also showed that belonging to the top or middle third of fitness levels was linked to better perceived work ability. Furthermore, good fitness and high levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were associated with better physical quality of life.

The cross-sectional study involved 185 employees of the City of Nokia with musculoskeletal symptoms. Participants’ fitness levels were assessed with a six-minute walking test, and weekly physical activity was measured using motion sensors. Sick leave data were collected with participants’ consent from employer records for the preceding six months. Work ability and quality of life were assessed through questionnaires. The analysis accounted for age, gender, and education.

Investing in employee activity pays off

Although individuals are ultimately responsible for their own physical activity, it is essential for society and employers to encourage an active lifestyle. The importance of regular activity is highlighted by the fact that musculoskeletal disorders and mental health issues are the leading causes of sick leave, according to the Finnish Social Insurance Institution, and physical activity can help reduce the risk of both.

Thus, promoting physical activity is a cost-effective way to enhance productivity, paying for itself through reduced sick leave and improved work performance.

Päivi Kolu
Researcher, Master of Health Sciences, Physiotherapist
UKK
Institute

Photo: UKK Institute / Studio Reetta Muranen

Read the article:

Kolu P, Raitanen J, Sievänen H, Tokola K, Vähä-Ypyä H, Nieminen E, Vasankari T. Cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with sickness absence and work ability. Occup Med (Lond). 2022 Aug 12:kqac070. doi: 10.1093/occmed/kqac070. PMID: 35960163.

The Finland – a country and people with active lifestyle concept observes theme months in September for study and work ability and in November for family activity. The goal is to highlight various perspectives on physical activity and functionality. Everyone has an essential role in promoting these themes and driving change. #LupausSuomelle #LöftetillFinland