Physically FIT

The goal of paraDIGMA groep is to make working people in the Netherlands sustainably employable, from our own perspective on people, work and health. Sustainable employability issues are approached from our FIT strategy at paraDIGMA groep . This strategy is aimed at optimizing the FIT for people, work and organizations, in a practically applicable way. We do this from the FIT model. This consists of 4 domains. One of them is "Physical FIT".
What is physical FIT?
Within the Physical FIT domain, the physical fitness or vitality of employees is examined. Important building blocks within this domain are the exercise standard, physical condition, physical work capacity, sleep quality and lifestyle. All, of course, in relation to the physical demands of the job. Research has shown that physically vital employees are not only happier, but also demonstrably more productive.
What affects physical FIT?
The physical FIT domain is made up of 5 building blocks. These building blocks affect how physically fit a person feels. They can be either positive or negative. The building blocks for this domain are:
Exercise standard
"The degree to which an employee moves sufficiently."
People are moving less and less and sitting much more, especially with the frequent use of computers and smartphones. We also see that people are cycling or walking to their destinations less often than in the past. Sufficient exercise is essential for good physical and mental health. It reduces the risks of (chronic) diseases and improves cognition. Employees who exercise enough can concentrate better, are more productive and absent less. The Health Council recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate to intensive exercise, such as walking or cycling, and do muscle and bone strengthening activities at least twice a week. In the FIT analysis, we ask employees how much and how often they engage in vigorous exercise each week. This provides insight into whether employees are exercising enough, exercising on average or exercising too little.
Safe workplace
"The degree to which an employee possesses a safe workplace."
A safe workplace is crucial to the health and well-being of employees. It prevents workplace accidents and occupational diseases, reduces absenteeism, and increases productivity because employees feel safe and valued. An unsafe workplace can damage an organization's reputation. Having a safe workplace is a legal obligation and contributes to positive organizational culture and business results. Within the FIT analysis, we ask employees if they experience a safe workplace.
Sleep problems
"The extent to which the employee has slept very badly in the past month."
In the FIT analysis, we ask employees about sleep problems they have experienced in the past month. This helps us get a clear picture of any sleep problems within the organization. In fact, employee sleep problems are a major risk for organizations because they increase the risk of errors, accidents and reduced productivity, while it can also often lead to absenteeism. There is a direct relationship between chronic sleep problems and long-term stress as recovery from daily stress is hindered, resulting in exhaustion and emotional problems.
When employees sleep just right, they are alert, productive and better able to handle stress, leading to higher efficiency and fewer mistakes in the workplace. This results in lower absenteeism, fewer health problems and a more positive work atmosphere, which improves talent retention and overall organizational performance. Good sleep also promotes cognitive functions and mental well-being, making employees better equipped to face challenges and collaborate effectively.
Physical work ability
"Assessment of one's own work capacity in view of the physical demands of the work."
The physical work capability of employees is important because it directly contributes to their productivity. Good physical work ability reduces the risk of absenteeism. Moreover, good physical fitness contributes to the overall well-being and satisfaction of employees. This leads to a healthy and sustainable work environment. Within the FIT analysis, we ask employees to assess their own physical work capacity. This provides insight into the extent to which employees are physically able to cope with the demands of their work and allows the organization to take action where necessary.
Absenteeism expectation
"Assessment of own absenteeism."
Within the FIT analysis, we ask employees to estimate their absenteeism for the coming year. This provides insight into potential absenteeism. It is important to ask employees about this, so that the organization can gain insight into potential risk factors within the absenteeism and insight can be gained into the absenteeism behavior (absenteeism threshold). This allows the organization to take preventive measures to improve the work climate and prevent absenteeism.
Physically FIT and the other domains
Within paraDIGMA groep 's FIT strategy there are 4 domains, physical FIT is only one of them. The other domains are: Mental FIT, Job FIT and Organizational FIT. Each domain has its own building blocks that affect that specific domain. However, these building blocks and domains are interconnected. The cohesion of the building blocks and domains determine whether or not an employee or organization is sustainably employable.