A recent study by flexible workspace operator IWG unveils the positive impact of hybrid working on the overall health and productivity of employees. The findings indicate that hybrid workers are experiencing improvements in exercise, sleep, and eating habits, leading to a win-win situation for both employees and employers.
The research, conducted among over 2,000 hybrid workers, highlights that reduced commuting time has resulted in various health and wellbeing benefits. The average hybrid worker is now engaging in 4.7 hours of exercise per week, compared to 3.4 hours.
Furthermore, the additional time saved from commuting has translated into better sleep quality, with hybrid workers enjoying 71 extra hours, equivalent to three days, of sleep annually. Eating habits have also seen a positive shift, as 70% of respondents note having the time to prepare a healthy breakfast daily, and 54% report spending more time cooking nutritious meals during the week.
The study indicates increased consumption of fresh fruits (46%) and vegetables (44%), as well as a 20% rise in fish intake. Additionally, 25% of respondents have reduced their consumption of sweets since pre-2020.
Notably, these healthier lifestyle choices have contributed to weight loss, with 27% of workers reporting shedding pounds since the start of the pandemic. The main drivers behind this weight loss are identified as increased time for exercise (65%) and more time for preparing healthy meals (54%).
Dr. Sara Kayat, an advocate for an active and healthy lifestyle, emphasizes the positive impact of hybrid working on health. She states that the extra time afforded by a hybrid working model supports a balanced diet, physical activity, good quality sleep, stress management, and social connections, all crucial for overall wellbeing.
Hybrid working, which involves a combination of home, local workspace, and city center HQ, has not only improved health but also led to productivity gains. Almost 79% of respondents report increased productivity, attributing it to reduced work-related stress (47%) and more time to relax after work (46%).
Nicholas Bloom's research at Stanford Graduate School of Business suggests an overall productivity increase of 3% to 4% due to hybrid working. This tangible benefit is viewed positively by both businesses and staff.
The study also reveals that two-thirds (66%) of respondents feel their mental health is good as a result of the shift to hybrid working. With more free time outside of work, 81% feel they have had additional personal time compared to pre-2020. Many are utilizing this time for activities that promote health and wellbeing, such as spending time with family and friends (55%) and engaging in exercise or short walks during the day (67%).
Mark Dixon, CEO of IWG, emphasizes how hybrid working contributes to a healthier and happier workforce by eliminating the need for long daily commutes. He highlights that organizations embracing hybrid working not only witness improved employee health and happiness but also more engaged and productive teams.
Harsh Lambah, Country Manager and Vice President of Sales – South Asia at IWG, describes hybrid working as a game-changer for employee health and wellness. Lambah emphasizes the benefits of a flexible and collaborative work environment in supporting physical and mental wellness. By minimizing commute times and fostering social connections, hybrid work enables employees to prioritize their well-being without compromising professional output. Additionally, the positive environmental impact resonates strongly with both enterprises and employees. Organizations adopting hybrid working are not only experiencing healthier and happier workforces but also more engaged and productive teams.
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