Physical activity and work-related variables associated with the mental and physical health of secondary school teachers

Objectives: The teaching profession is characterized by high levels of stress and physical complaints, factors that can be improved by regular participation in physical activity (PA). The purpose of this study was to identify factors that are associated to the mental and physical health of teachers, with a special interest for PA variables in order to make suggestions for PA interventions.
Methods: An online survey was conducted in a representative sample of secondary school teachers (n=1167,average age 40years;68%female). PA and sitting time were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire(IPAQ); mental (MH) and physical health (PH) using the Short Form 36 and Psychosocial Aspects at Work by the PAW questionnaire. Anova's, univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed analyzing the association between PA, sitting time and work related variables with teachers MH & PH.
Results: Only PA in leisure time was associated with a positive MH and PH, whereas occupational PA and sitting time were negatively associated teachers' health. PA for transportation and PA at home were not associated with teachers' health. The work related factors; job satisfaction, social support and occupational stress, were more important correlates for MH (R²=34,7%) than for PH (R²=9,5%).
Conclusion: Work related aspects were the most important correlates of MH and PH indicating the importance of the work environment. Although any kind of PA may have a positive influence on health, occupational PA was perceived as stressful and wearing. Only Leisure time PA was associated with a more positive MH and PH.