Research results are in!
Survey shows Stretch Break Works !
Stretch Break users report
reduced stress
levels
greater awareness
of need to take breaks
greater awareness of ergonomic issues
reduced stiffness and muscle ache
Users rate effectiveness
of Stretch Break
Results from a survey of PC operators show that Stretch Break is
effective in reducing stiffness and muscle ache associated with
long hours at the keyboard. Users of Stretch Break have reduced
their stress level and have become much more aware of the need to
take frequent mini-breaks. The users have also become more aware
of ergonomic issues. However, Stretch Break did not significantly
enhance their productivity or how much they enjoyed using their
PC.
The study was initiated in order to measure the impact of using
the Stretch Break software program. Computer operators who had been
using the program for an average of 11 weeks were asked to evaluate
their experiences by completing a computer-assisted questionnaire.
The survey included questions on their opinions about the impact
of the program, how long and how often they used Stretch Break,
as well as some demographic questions. The study is being replicated
at other sites where Stretch Break is being used.
Data from the completed questionnaires have been received and tabulated.
A summary of the results is presented below.
A final report on the study is available in hard copy from Para
Technologies. The report Computer User Perception
of the Effectiveness of Exercise Mini-Breaks is available for
downloading in a Word for Windows file.
Summary of Survey Results
Impact questions |
Mean score* |
I enjoy working at my PC more when Stretch Break is
on. |
20.9
(neutral) |
I have become more productive since Stretch
Break was installed. |
21.1
(neutral) |
Using Stretch Break has reduced the level
of stress I feel when I am working on my PC. |
27.6
(agree) |
Since I started using Stretch Break I
am more aware of the need to take frequent breaks. |
30.3
(agree) |
Since I started using Stretch Break I
am more aware of other ergonomic issues such as the proper placement
of the keyboard and monitor. |
28.1
(agree) |
Using Stretch Break has reduced the stiffness
and muscle ache I feel when I am working on my PC. |
28.7
(agree) |
*Scores based on a continuous scale ranging from
1 to 41:
1----------------21---------------41 |
Strongly |
Neutral |
Strongly |
Disagree |
|
Agree |
|
Characteristics of Users |
Hours per day using PC
|
Mean = 6.6
|
Primary use of PC:
Data Entry
Comm./Internet/Email
Clerical
Other
|
44%
19%
19%
18%
|
Gender:
Male
Female
|
63%
37%
|
Age
|
Median = 41 to 45 years
|
|