Alleviating work stress with physical activity: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Background: Work stress presents significant challenges to employee well-being and productivity. Physical activity interventions in the workplace have been associated with occupational stress reduction; however, further investigation with meticulous planning and comprehensive descriptions of the interventions is necessary.

Objective: This study aimed to synthesize the effects of physical activity interventions on work stress among employees based on studies published from 2019 to 2024.

Methods: This comprehensive review examines the effects of physical activity interventions on work stress outcomes, synthesizing studies published between 2019 and 2024. The study followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024611620). Quality assessment was performed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias tools, and meta-analysis was conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

Results: The review analyzed interventions such as aerobic training, resistance training, holistic movement practices, and sports activities. This study revealed a small negative correlation between physical activity and stress (d = -0.24, 95% CI [-0.83, 0.35]). Substantial heterogeneity (I² = 98%, p < 0.001) indicated variation across populations and intervention types.

Conclusions: Despite modest effects, results highlight the potential of tailored, sustainable physical activity programs to improve employee resilience and workplace well-being. This study emphasizes incorporating physical activity into wellness strategies and encourages future research to optimize intervention design and implementation for maximum impact.

Keywords: exercise; health promotion; mental health; occupational stress; stress management; wellness prevention; workplace health promotion.