More Physical Activity, More Work Engagement? : A Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study

• Published in: Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine
• Main Authors: Kiema-Junes, Heli, Saarinen, Aino, Korpelainen, Raija, Kangas, Maarit, Ala-Mursula, Leena, Pyky, Riitta, Hintsanen, Mirka
• Other Authors: Medicum, Department of Psychology and Logopedics
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Lippincott williams & wilkins 2022
• Subjects: 515 Psychology; Accelerometer-measured; Leisure time; Physical activity; Sedentary behavior; Sitting time; Work engagement; Northern Finland
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10138/351529

Objective To examine the role of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SED) for work engagement. Methods We used data from Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study (n = 3046 to 4356) to analyze self-reported weekly leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), daily leisure-time sitting time (LTST) and work engagement. PA and SED 24-hour were also measured with accelerometer for 14 days. The data were analyzed using linear regression analyses. Results High self-reported LTPA and sports participation were associated with higher work engagement and its subdimensions. High self-reported ST was associated with lower work engagement, vigor, and absorption. Accelerometer-measured light PA was associated with higher work engagement and vigor, and accelerometermeasured steps were linked to higher vigor. Accelerometer-measured SED was associated with lower work engagement, vigor, and dedication. Conclusions Self-reported and accelerometer-measured PA and SED may play a role in people's work engagement. Peer reviewed