Physical Exercise And Improved Productivity - 2297 Words

Physical Exercise and Improved Productivity Jessica R. Sitzman Applied Research 1 Professor Lacey Clark Metropolitan State University of Denver October 17th, 2014 Problem Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity. –John F. Kennedy. The workplace has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Many Americans are subjected to living sedentary lifestyles. With the addition of office jobs, changes in transportation, and chaotic schedules, Americans have become inactive. This inactivity has detrimental impacts on the economy as well as the health and success of individuals. It is estimated that inactivity can be directly related†¦show more content†¦The World Health Organization estimates that depression affects 1 in 10 adults in the United States. Untreated depression can diminish the quality of life by contributing to the increase in the chronic diseases listed above. Depression can also lead to risky behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse, strained relationships, and create difficulties at work. Symptoms of depression include; daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, sleep troubles, and difficulty in finding pleasure in things that once brought the individual happiness (United States N ational Institute on Mental Health, 2014). The United States continues to see a decline in the growth of its economy. The economy grew consistently by about 4% in the 50’s and 60’s. In the 70’s and 80’s there was a slight dip of growth to 3%. The last 10 years has only seen a growth rate of 2%. Many factors are contributed to the stagnation of the GDP growth rate in the United States, one contributing factor is a loss of productivity in the workforce (United States, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2014). Literature Review Many studies have been conducted in order to determine how to increase productivity in the workplace. Many factors are said to influence human efficiency. One of the main contributing factors becoming more recognized is the benefits of exercise before tackling the eight hour workday. Exercise can be characterized and defined in various ways; however,