Medical experts have been stressing for decades the health benefits that exercise provides. Recent studies have also been conducted into how exercise can play a part in performance in the workplace – particularly for those in leadership positions.
While you may be skeptical, it seems there may be a strong case for the argument that people who exercise make better leaders.
Here are some of the reasons why:
Less sick days
- Those who are physically fit are less likely to pick up the dreaded office bug that goes around. Absenteeism costs companies millions of dollars every year. While it is reasonable to expect anyone to fall ill from time to time, when a leader takes unplanned time off work it not only impact their own work, but also the team’s work.
Increased energy
- Are you ever surprised at how much energy you have right after exercising? That’s because regular exercise gives you increased and sustained energy levels throughout the day. This is particularly important for leaders who need to remain focused and pro-active all day.
Higher Confidence
- The fitter you are, the more self-confidence you’re going to have. You look better, feel better and feel that you can accomplish the goals that you have set for yourself. As a leader, confidence is vital. If you don’t believe in yourself, how is your team going to?
Effective Stress
Management - Anyone in a leadership position will be familiar with stress. Strict deadlines, difficult people, budget issues, and long hours are extremely demanding. Some leaders seem to take this all in stride. Chances are that they are the ones who regularly hit the gym or find ways of keeping themselves active. Exercise releases the physical and emotional tensions that are experienced on a daily basis, which means that fit leaders have lower stress levels.
Taking care of yourself physically is a critical element in effective leadership. You can't do great things at work if you don't feel good. The best leaders eat well, exercise, and take care of themselves.
