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Although many still long for a stable office job, new research shows that such work can have negative consequences for health.

According to a study published in May 2024 in the Journal of Men’s Health, office workers are in poorer physical and psychological condition than colleagues who work in the field.

Lack of movement, more problems

The research conducted in South Korea compared the physical and mental health of young adult men working in two very different environments, the office and the field. The results surprised even the authors themselves.

Field workers showed significantly greater physical strength and better mobility. In a simple handgrip strength test, field workers achieved an average of 44 kilograms, while office workers lagged behind with an average of 40 kilograms. In the test measuring how many times a person can stand up from a chair in 30 seconds, the difference was even greater, field workers were about 14% better.

More stress in the office

But perhaps an even more important finding relates to mental health. Office workers report higher levels of stress and more frequent feelings of exhaustion. The reasons for this are not only a sedentary lifestyle, but also a lack of variety in tasks, a lower level of physical activity, and a feeling of less control over their own work.

On the other hand, field workers, although often under greater physical strain, show a higher level of job satisfaction and report chronic stress less often.

Time for changes?

These results come at a time when more and more companies are introducing remote work and flexible forms of employment. But the authors of the study warn that physical movement and daily activity are not a luxury, but a necessity for preserving health. Office workers are advised to stand up regularly, take short walks during the day, and include exercise in their daily routine.

What can we learn?

Although field work is not for everyone, it is becoming increasingly clear that static computer work in a controlled environment is not necessarily an “easier” or healthier choice. On the contrary, prolonged sitting and stress can be very harmful in the long term.

Maybe it is time to reconsider what a “good” job and a healthy job mean.

Source: Choi, Y. et al. (2024). Comparison of Physical and Mental Health Status Between Office and Field Workers. Journal of Men's Health, 20(2).

DOI: 10.31083/j.jomh2002042