Changes in cardiorespiratory fitness and cardiovascular health in the workplace: a case study

Authors

  • Georgia Torres University of the Witwatersrand
  • Philippe Gradidge Centre for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand
  • Demitri Constantinou Centre for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/2078-516X/2020/v32i1a7638

Abstract

Background: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an independent predictor of cardiovascular (CV) and all-cause mortality, contributing a higher proportion of CV risk compared to other traditionally recognised risk factors. However, CRF is not included in usual workplace wellness protocols and, as such, employers are not aware of the importance of this factor.


Aim: The aim of this case study was to explore the effect of a 12-week exercise intervention programme on CRF, CV health and medical health claims in a male participant who was employed by a corporate company with existing chronic diseases.

Findings: Health outcome measures improved after the 12-week exercise intervention programme. CRF showed the greatest improvement and medical health claims were lowered during the three-month post-intervention period.

Implications: CRF should be included as a health outcome measure in worksite wellness programmes and monitored.

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Author Biographies

Philippe Gradidge, Centre for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand

Associate Professor 

Demitri Constantinou, Centre for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand

Adjunct Professor and Unit Director

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Published

2020-03-16

How to Cite

Torres, G., Gradidge, P., & Constantinou, D. (2020). Changes in cardiorespiratory fitness and cardiovascular health in the workplace: a case study. South African Journal of Sports Medicine, 32(1), 1–4. https://doi.org/10.17159/2078-516X/2020/v32i1a7638

Issue

Vol. 32 No. 1 (2020)

Section

Case Study

License

The South African Journal of Sports Medicine reserves copyright of the material published. The work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) International License. Material submitted for publication in the South African Journal of Sports Medicine is accepted provided it has not been published elsewhere. The South African Journal of Sports Medicine does not hold itself responsible for statements made by the authors.