Fitness News

By Kath Hudson

www.healthclubmanagment.co.uk

Back pain is a leading source of workplace absenteeism, which costs both individuals and the economy. Kath Hudson reports on how the fitness industry is making a difference.

Low back pain is the leading cause of disability globally. In 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), it impacted around one in 13 people, equating to 619 million individuals. This represents an increase of 60 percent since 1990, with cases expected to rise to an estimated 843 million by 2050.

Low back pain (LBP) affects quality of life and is associated with co-morbidities and higher mortality risks. Individuals experiencing chronic LBP, particularly older adults, are more likely to face financial challenges, leave the workforce prematurely.

Musculoskeletal problems account for a large portion of work-related absences. This is an area where the health and fitness industry can provide solutions. Wellbeing consultant Oliver Patrick explains: “Musculoskeletal problems are largely a disease of being sedentary. Improving cardiovascular fitness, movement quality, and muscle mass would immediately make an impact on workforce health.”

Stephen Price, managing director of SP&Co Group, agrees: “The rise in musculoskeletal issues, alongside lifestyle-related diseases and mental health challenges, poses a worrying threat to workforce productivity. The health and fitness industry has an incredible opportunity to play a significant role in workforce wellbeing.

“The medical community is seeking support to help individuals who don’t require medical interventions but need guidance to manage their health,” he says. “Fitness operators should be playing a major role in this effort to improve public health outcomes.”

Motion is lotion

A key intervention fitness facilities can offer is strengthening the muscles around the lower back. Muscle weakness often contributes to lower back pain, but research suggests even short exercise interventions can yield significant improvements in strength.

Dr. Gillian Hatfield, associate professor in kinesiology at Canada’s University of Fraser Valley, led research into the impact of an eight-week participation in the Les Mills Core programme. The study found participants attending bi-weekly gym classes for eight weeks improved plank endurance by 45 percent, extensor endurance by 35 percent, and abdominal strength by 14 percent.

“The fact that people with pre-existing lower back pain saw significant benefits from core workouts is important,” says Hatfield. “People with lower back pain are often prescribed painkillers and told to rest, but in most cases, motion is lotion. Reducing sedentary time strengthens lower back muscles, improves blood flow, and reduces pain and stiffness.”

Les Mills head of research, Bryce Hastings, adds that sedentary lifestyles and prolonged sitting are closely linked to back pain. “Core training activates muscles essential for preventing pain. Even individuals meeting physical activity guidelines can experience issues if they spend a lot of time sitting. Prolonged sitting weakens postural muscles, which then fail to support the body effectively, increasing the risk of injury and pain.”

Innovative partnerships

Collaborations between healthcare providers and fitness facilities have proven effective in addressing musculoskeletal health. Programs designed to deliver physiotherapy and exercise interventions in fitness settings enable individuals to benefit from expert guidance in an environment with more equipment and space than traditional medical facilities.

By creating these partnerships, the fitness industry has the opportunity to significantly impact public health, helping to alleviate the challenges posed by musculoskeletal issues while promoting sustainable wellbeing practices.