ShareThe NY Times (May 26th, 2011) reported that the shift in the labor force since 1960 is closely correlated to the obesity epidemic in the US. Jobs requiring moderate physical activity, which made up 50% of the labor market in 1960, now account for just 20%. This translates to 120-140 calories/day, obviously a considerable figure over time. For those in a position considered sedentary, individuals must now take personal responsibility for this differential, either through their leisure choices or in their food selection.
Most of our jobs now take place at a desk, in front of a computer. As more and more of the labor force takes sedentary jobs, the more important corporate wellness programs will be. Sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day (including lunch breaks) is not a good way to get healthy.