Employers Should Promote Fitness Because Fit Programmers Program Better
Employers should encourage programmers to exercise and be fit, as a recent study found that those who are fit have four times less brain shrinkage than those who aren't. And seriously, that can only help you be a better programmer, right?
A recent Reader's Digest blurb in the Health section tells of an Alzheimer's study.
"A University of Kansas study found that patients who were fit had four times less brain shrinkage (meaning cell death) than those who were out of shape. The benefits of exercise, including changes in growth factors and increased blood vessels and blood flow, may prevent brain cells from dying. Researchers suggest first-time exercisers begin with a 15- to 30- minute walk three times a week." - Reader's Digest pg. 96, December 2008.
Okay, so I stretched it a bit. But yes, I believe in being fit, and I believe in the advantages of proper diet and exercise. Personally, I feel this can be related to everyone's brain and general health.
I think companies should encourage programmers to get outside at least once a day for a 10-15 minute walk. It would clear up the cricks in the necks, allow the mind to relax, and some of those tough problems might even get resolved while walking.
We're told we should take a break from monitors every few hours, to avoid eye strain, so why not take a walk. The cigarette and coffee breaks don't count. And seriously, if management allows all the cigarette and coffee breaks, why don't they encourage exercise breaks? I think the trouble is peer pressure. No one wants to go outside and have people accuse us of goofing off. If management would encourage it, wouldn't that be great!
What do you think?
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
May your dreams be in ASP.NET and may your Health be Excellent!
Nannette