In recent years, conversations around the concept of a four-day workweek have been gaining traction, with both employees and employers seeing the potential upsides. Now, new research from the University of South Australia has added to the debate, suggesting that a four-day workweek can bring significant mental and physical health benefits.
The research, which was conducted by the university’s Health and Wellbeing Research Institute, focused on the effects of a four-day workweek on sleep, physical activity, and mental health. Study participants were asked to complete a survey on their work-life balance and health behaviors, as well as a questionnaire on their mental health and sleep habits.
The results of the survey suggest that a four-day workweek can have a marked impact on physical and mental health. Those who took part in the research reported improved sleep duration, higher levels of physical activity, and better mental health.
The UniSA researchers found that, after conducting a study that spanned 13 months, people on holiday exhibited 13% more moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise, were five per cent less sedentary each day, and slept four per cent more each day.
“In this study, it was observed that movement patterns improved when on holiday, with higher physical activity levels and less sedentary behaviour occurring across the board,” researcher Dr Ty Ferguson said.
“Holidaying can be beneficial for our physical and mental health, as it allows us to gain an extra 21 minutes of sleep each day, which can have a range of positive effects. For instance, getting enough sleep can help improve our mood, cognitive function, and productivity. Moreover, it can help reduce our chances of developing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.”
A federal parliamentary committee’s report last month supported the idea of a four-day work week, as well as a year’s worth of paid parental leave and the right to not engage in work-related activities after work hours.
The report suggested that the Albanese government adopt the 100: 80: 100 model, in which employees would receive a full-time salary for performing their duties at 80 per cent of the normal workweek.
