Surprising benefits of four day work week: study

Health researchers from the University of South Australia say that a recent study suggests that a three day weekend can see marked improvements on sleep and physical activity, as well as general mental and physical benefits.

According to the research, which was conducted over a 13-month study period, the UniSA researchers found that people on holidays engaged in 13 per cent 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, we found that movement patterns changed for the better when on holiday, with increased physical activity and decreased sedentary behaviour observed across the board,” researcher Dr Ty Ferguson said.

“We also found that people gained an extra 21 minutes of sleep each day they were on holiday, which can have a range of positive effects on our physical and mental health,” Dr Ferguson said.

“For example, getting enough sleep can help improve our mood, cognitive function, and productivity. It can also help lower our risk of developing a range of health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.”

Senior researcher at UniSA, Professor Carol Maher, said the study further supported the imposition of a four-day work week.

“This study provides empirical evidence that people have healthier lifestyle patterns when they have a short break, such as a three-day weekend,” Professor Maher said.

This increase in physical activity and sleep is expected to have positive effects on both mental and physical health, contributing to the benefits observed with a four-day work week.”

“Importantly, our study also showed that even after a short holiday, people’s increased sleep remained elevated for two weeks, showing that the health benefits of a three-day break can have lasting effects beyond the holiday itself.”

Last month, a report by a federal parliamentary committee backed plans for a four-day work week, in addition to a year’s paid parental leave and the right to disconnect after work hours.

The report recommended the Albanese government follow the 100: 80: 100 model, in which workers would be paid a full-time wage and maintain productivity despite working 80 per cent of the week.

UniSA’s recent study reinforces findings from a major study released large year, which tracked nearly 1000 employees across at 33 companies across six countries.

The study found workers were less stressed, less likely to call in sick, less resignations and better productivity.