The Effect of a Workplace Exercise and Nutrition Intervention on Work Ability, Self-Efficacy, and Self-Rated Health

Background: Resistance exercise is one of the most effective ways to enhance physical and mental health and improve performance. When combined with proper nutrition, the benefits are even greater. The workplace is an opportune environment to foster these lifestyle behaviors.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a workplace resistance exercise and nutrition intervention on work ability, self-efficacy and self-rated health.

Methods: Sixteen university employees participated in a ten-week supervised resistance exercise and nutrition intervention. An 8-item composite survey was distributed to participants to measure work ability, self-efficacy, and self-rated health at the initiation and conclusion of the intervention. Paired T-tests were used to evaluate treatment effects and determine if there was a statistical difference between the pre-intervention and post-intervention scores.

Results: There was a statistically significant improvement between pre-intervention and post-intervention scores for self-efficacy, self-rated health, and likelihood to adopt lifestyle change. Although dietary habits improved, the differences were not statistically significant. Likewise, there were no statistical differences in participants’ work ability before and after the intervention.

Conclusions: The RENU intervention was found to be effective in improving self-efficacy and self-rated health, potentially fostering lifestyle change. These findings provide valuable insights for the design of workplace health interventions.

Keywords: Resistance Exercise, Nutrition, Workplace health, Self-efficacy.