Adherence to Worksite Exercise Programs: An Integrative Review of Recent Research

Exercise has received considerable attention at the worksite in recent years because of its association with reduced risk for cardiovascular arid musculoskeletal diseases, obesity, and mental health problems, and its potential for minimizing the negative effects of such chronic conditions as diabetes, osteoporosis, and back pain (Bouchard, 1990; Duncan, 1985; Harris, 1989; Melby, 1988; Powell, 1989; Taylor, 1985). Worksite research documents that improved physical fitness results in fewer worker injuries, fewer absences from work due to illness, and increased worker productivity (Bowne. 1984; Cady, 1979; Hilyer, 1990; Lynch, 1990; Shephard, 1981; Sirles, 1991)