The PAradox project: Physical overload in individuals with physically demanding jobs - what does it look like and what can be done about it?

Research problem and specific questionsBlue-collar workers often face physical job demands that exceed their aerobic capacity, potentially leading to an overload.

The project study overload in blue-collar workers with physically demanding jobs, and evaluate a potential solution for achieving a healthy balance between daily activity and recovery among these workers. The project consists of 3 inter-related work packages (WPs):- WP 1.

Evaluating overload in blue-collar workers Study the variation in daily physical workload, readiness and overload-related health outcomes among blue-collar workers with physically demanding jobs and low aerobic capacity.- WP 2.

Investigating effects of a standard vs. an adaptive workplace exercise intervention Investigate how readiness and the overload-related health outcomes change in response to a standardised or a novel adaptive workplace exercise intervention. - WP 3.

Evaluating experiences and potential implementation of the interventions Explore experiences of the interventions, and potential barriers and facilitators for implementation.Data and methodWP1: We will study blue-collar workers (n=100) with physically demanding jobs and low fitness, monitoring their physical workload, readiness, and health outcomes over 4 weeks.

WP2: The workers will randomly assigned to either a standard or adaptive exercise protocol for 12 weeks, conducted during paid work hours.

WP3: We will conduct semi-structured interviews and focus groups interviews with participants and representatives of their employer.Societal relevance and utilisationThe project will significantly contribute to understanding overload in blue-collar workers, and developing measures and potential solutions for achieving a more sustainable work-life over time for them.

Inclusion of stakeholders and end-users in the project enables knowledge transfer for potential real-world implementation.Plan for project realisationThe project includes a strong cross-disciplinary scientific expertise including 8 researchers from 3 institutions, along with 3 collaborating partners representing stakeholders and end-users.

It features preliminary results, clear project management and defined roles. Potential risks are identified and proposed risk mitigation measures are available. Salary costs for participating research staff constitute most of the budget.