Feeling unproductive lately and can't seem to concentrate on your tasks? You're not alone. While it may seem counterintuitive, the solution could be as simple as lacing up your shoes for a quick workout. According to sports physician Dr. Tvisha Parikh, movement and physical activity have surprising benefits for boosting mental focus and work performance.
Various studies show that exercise leads to the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins which improve mood. But research has found these mood benefits directly translate to better work as well. A study observed employees who incorporated simple workouts into their daily routine reported not only happier moods but significantly higher work performance too – independently of the specific exercise done or their workloads.
Even short bursts of physical activity during microbreaks throughout the day can help unlock hidden wells of energy. Options like a brief walk outside, some stretches at your desk or a few minutes of dancing make a difference. The light activity is enough to impact focus and reduce mid-workday fatigue according to psychology research.
Long-term, regular exercise brings numerous perks for productivity according to Dr. Parikh. Aerobic activities like cardio can improve cardiorespiratory fitness over time. A higher VO2 max directly correlates to reduced fatigue and better performance on cognitive tasks. Studies have also found links between daily activity, better sleep and improved next-day work outputs.
Rather than worrying exercise may hinder focus right before quitting time, light physical activity conducted then was found to boost self-efficacy and work concentration in employees, according to research. While intense workouts may negatively impact some, others saw even greater focus post-sweat sesh.
Feeling stuck in a rut? Rather than battling on with no results, lace up your shoes and move your body – you may be surprised how a simple workout can give your productivity the boost it needs. Small changes can make a big difference to beating a slump and maximizing your potential at work.
