A recent global study has shown that sitting at a desk for extended periods can have a negative impact on our mental state, with stress levels rising after just a few hours of continuous work. However, the study also found that incorporating just 15 minutes of exercise into the workday can help to reverse these effects.
The study, conducted by ASICS and involving 26,000 participants, revealed a strong link between sedentary behaviour and mental wellbeing. State of Mind scores were found to decline the longer individuals remained inactive, with stress levels increasing significantly after four hours of uninterrupted desk time.
In response to these findings, a Desk Break experiment was carried out under the supervision of Dr. Brendon Stubbs from King’s College London. The experiment showed that adding just 15 minutes of movement to the workday led to a 22.5% improvement in mental state. Participants who took a daily Desk Break for a week reported a 14.7% reduction in stress levels, a 33.2% increase in productivity, and a 28.6% improvement in focus.
In a Public Service Announcement (PSA) ahead of World Mental Health Day, actor Brian Cox emphasised the importance of moving for mental health. Cox played the role of a strict boss in the PSA, highlighting the detrimental effects of prolonged desk work on mental wellbeing. He encouraged office workers to prioritise exercise for the benefit of their minds.
Dr. Brendon Stubbs, a leading researcher in exercise and mental health, expressed surprise at the powerful impact of 15-minute movement breaks on reducing stress and improving wellbeing. He noted that even a short amount of physical activity can have a meaningful effect on State of Mind scores.
ASICS UK has taken proactive steps to promote mental health in the workplace by introducing a Desk Break clause in their employee contracts. The company is urging other employers to follow suit and is sharing the Desk Break clause on their website. Office workers are also encouraged to advocate for their mental health by proposing Desk Breaks as part of their daily routine.
On World Mental Health Day, ASICS is launching the #DeskBreak movement to encourage office workers to prioritise their mental wellbeing. Participants who take a 15-minute Desk Break are invited to share a photo of their empty desk, with ASICS pledging to donate £5 to the mental health charity Mind for each image shared.
Gary Raucher, EVP ASICS EMEA, emphasised the importance of physical activity for mental health, while Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity at Mind, highlighted the significance of creating a mentally healthy workplace culture. By supporting employee mental wellbeing and implementing tools like workplace wellness action plans, organisations can empower their employees to work confidently and stress-free.
To learn more about the Desk Break initiative and join the movement, visit the ASICS website. Take a stand for your mental health and incorporate movement into your workday for a happier, healthier mind.
