Evaluation of a nationally delivered workplace step count challenge: Productivity, perceived stress and work engagement
Mini-Oral Presentation B2.12
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.619Keywords:
Physical Activity, Step Count, Workplace, Stress, ProductivityAbstract
Background: Workplace step count challenges show promise for increasing walking and overall physical activity (PA). Both PA and walking are linked to many positive physical, mental and social health benefits but few studies have investigated the effects of interventions on work-related outcomes. Purpose: The aim of this study was to; 1) describe the process of collecting work-related outcomes as part of a real-world workplace intervention called the Step Count Challenge (SCC), and; 2) report on step counts and work-related outcomes (productivity, perceived stress and work engagement). Methods: This observational study was conducted as part of a four-week national SCC targeting employee from multiple workplaces in Scotland, UK. Participants completed an online survey and reported steps, productivity (HWQ), perceived stress (Cohen Perceived Stress Scale) and work engagement (UWES) on the week prior to the intervention starting (baseline), week 1 and week 4. Process data such as recruitment and retention rates were monitored throughout. Results: Baseline data were reported for 246 participants (mean age 42.5 yrs., 83% female). Preliminary data indicate positive changes in step counts (3558 steps/day by week 4), stress and productivity. However, process data show low uptake to the study (16% of intervention participants) and high drop out across surveys. Conclusion: The findings highlight challenges with conducting research within real-world interventions. The SCC may have a positive change on steps and some work-related outcomes such as stress and productivity. Further investigation into how robust research methods can be delivered without influencing real-world interventions is warranted.
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Copyright (c) 2021 Gemma C. Ryde, Simone A. Tomaz, Krissi Sandison, Carl Greenwood, Paul Kelly
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