The role of physical activity and heart rate variability for the control of work related stress

Posted on March 9, 2014 by Stone Hearth News

Front Physiol. 2014 Feb 21;5:67. eCollection 2014.

The role of physical activity and heart rate variability for the control of workrelated stress.

Tonello L1, Rodrigues FB1, Souza JW1, Campbell CS1, Leicht AS2, Boullosa DA1. Author information 1Department of Physical Education, Catholic University of Brasilia Brasilia, Brazil. 2Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, James Cook University Queensland, QLD, Australia.

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) and exercise are often used as tools to reduce stress and therefore the risk for developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Meanwhile, heart rate variability (HRV) has been utilized to assess both stress and PA or exercise influences. The objective of the present review was to examine the current literature in regards to workplace stress, PA/exercise and HRV to encourage further studies.

We considered original articles from known databases (PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge) over the last 10 years that examined these important factors. A total of seven studies were identified with workplace stress strongly associated with reduced HRV in workers. Longitudinal workplace PA interventions may provide a means to improve worker stress levels and potentially cardiovascular risk with mechanisms still to be clarified. Future studies are recommended to identify the impact of PA, exercise, and fitness on stress levels and HRV in workers and their subsequent influence on cardiovascular health.

Source Exercise, the workplace, and stress: more articles - See more at: http://www.stonehearthnewsletters.com/the-role-of-physical-activity-and-heart-rate-variability-for-the-control-of-work-related-stress/corporate-wellness/#sthash.ObQ1cVGl.dpuf