Use Exercise, but not "Exhaustively"

One of the most important breakthroughs in the science of exercise and psychology was the linking of physical exertion with mental well-being. By now, most of us know about endorphins, which are released in our brains during strenuous physical activity, enhancing and raising our disposition and attitude. Some athletes even experience what is called the “runner’s high”. I often experience a feeling of mental competence and physical well being after a morning jog.

How does this relate to shiftworkers? We know that working all those horrible hours takes a toll on us physically and mentally. So it would stand to reason that exercise taken at appropriate times and in reasonable amounts can help counteract the negative tendency of shiftwork to leave us a little depressed. In addition, it has been found that exercise done during the course of a night shift can improve alertness and attitude on the job.

As a supervisor who hadn’t worked night shifts for a number of years, I was forced back into my old job during a strike called by our regular shiftworkers. During that time, we worked twelve-hour shifts for a period of 10 days, and lived at the plant for the entire time. While working these shifts, I conducted a little experiment on myself.

I worked the night shift (6:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.) When I got off work in the morning, I would exercise vigorously for about one hour by running about 6 miles. After my run, I’d shower and change, have a light meal, catch up on some correspondence, and go to sleep for about 6 or 7 hours. After arising at about 4:00 or 5:00 p.m., I’d have another light meal and go to work.

I felt that this routine left me alert and in good spirits for the entire 10 days. I must admit that it was easier to accomplish because I didn’t go home and wasn’t preoccupied with other matters. I do feel however, that the exercise left me tired enough to sleep longer than I would have ordinarily. I also believe that endorphins released into my system helped me to cope with the situation.

Exercise changes your body temperature. The variation in body temperature at different times of the day and night correspond to the tendency for some people to be more functional at certain times of the day than others. For instance, my wife is a “lark”. She’s up at the crack of dawn rarin’ to go. I’m an “owl” and prefer to stay up late, and sleep late in the morning. The evidence suggests that her body temperature is higher in the morning than mine. It is important not to try to go to sleep right after vigorous exercise for this reason – allowing your body cool down before going to bed.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic