Forty-two per cent of Irish workers have said they are either “totally” or “extremely” inactive during their working day.
Fewer people are exercising at the recommended weekly levels than they were 15 months ago, according to new research from the Nutrition and Health Foundation (NHF).
Just over a quarter (26 per cent) of Ireland’s workforce exercise at the recommended level of over 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week, the research found.
The survey was conducted online by Behaviour & Attitudes on a nationally representative sample of 18-65 year olds employed in the Republic.
The fieldwork was carried out from 25th January to 2nd February 2016 and a total of 996 employees participated in the survey.
The research was commissioned to mark Ireland’s second National Workplace Wellbeing Day on Friday, 8th April.
Hundreds of organisations across the public and private sector are expected to participate in the campaign which aims to improve employee health by promoting better nutrition and exercise in the workplace.
As part of this year’s activities, employers are also being encouraged to arrange a “Lunchtime Mile” - a one mile cycle, jog, run, or walk for employees in the vicinity of their workplace.
Dr Muireann Cullen of the Nutrition & Health Foundation said: “A healthier workforce is in everyone’s interest. Four out of five employees believe there is a positive link between their health and wellbeing and their company’s productivity.
“Seven in ten (69 per cent) also say they are more likely to stay longer with employers who show an interest in their health and wellbeing.”