Many people look forward to a lengthy work commute as it provides them with an opportunity to awaken their senses before entering the office and starting their workday. Others, however, prefer commutes under half an hour in length, as long ones make them feel drained and exhausted before even stepping foot into their place of work.
No matter what your preferred commute duration is, the Journal of Transport Geography recently published a study that makes the case for an ideal commute time needed to ensure good work performance and general happiness.
The study involved just over a thousand full-time Australian employees and found workers with longer commutes took more days off on average, while workers with short commutes were more content and productive.
When considering general mood and productivity levels at work, the duration of a commute is not the only factor that matters. The study also revealed that employees aged between 35 and 54 who biked or walked to work had increased performance when compared to employees who commuted via public transport or car. The finding from the study support those of the previous research studies which have shown driving is the most stressful commuting mode, closely followed by taking public transit.
That said, it’s really no surprise that commuting to work using physically engaging methods boosts productivity. For decades, researchers have known that physical exercise boosts cognitive function while stimulating the production of mood-lifting and anxiety-reducing endorphins. Fore more tips for mindfulness visit Claritychi.com.
However, the latest data shows that American workers are failing to translate established scientific knowledge into real-world practices. A report conducted by the United States Census Bureau between 2008 and 2012 showed that just 1.90% of employees aged between 35 and 44 walked to the office. The percent who cycled to work was even smaller at just 0.50%.
The minuscule percentage of the U.S population who commute to work actively is a real shame, especially when physical activity outdoors has so many health benefits for those in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. A study conducted in 2018 found that just 40 minutes of brisk walking, multiple times a week, decreased the risk of heart issues in women over 50 by 25%. Another study conducted recently revealed that those aged 60+ who engaged in regular brisk walking reduced their risk of fatal cardiovascular disease by over 50%
While commuting via physically active methods such as walking or biking or scooting may increase the duration of your commute, there’s no doubt the benefits of using such methods speak for themselves. Here is a good guide on a great form of transport – e-scooters. For more tips on how to perform better at work, be sure to read our blog post entitled “The Single Easiest Way to Be Happier at Work.”
