Course leader presentation: Lars L. Andersen

Physical Exercise at the Workplace – from research to practice, 23rd – 25th of May 2023, Online course

Lars Andersen, you are the course leader for our course “Physical Exercise at the Workplace – from research to practice”. Can you tell us a little something about your background?

My background is in human physiology (University of Copenhagen) and I work as Professor at the National Research Centre for the Working Environment in Copenhagen, Denmark. Before I started doing research in the field of working environment I also worked with elite athletes. Some of the principles for preventing  injuries among athletes – for example, using specific strength training – I have tested also among workers. My current research on work environment covers 1) epidemiological studies to investigate risk factors for sickness absence and disability pension 2) randomized controlled trials with physical exercise programs and participatory ergonomics to prevent and reduce back or neck pain and to improve work ability and wellbeing, 3) laboratory studies with physiological measurement to study responses to office work as well as heavy and fatiguing work, 4) healthy senior working life.

Why do you think that physical exercise at the workplace is an important and current issue to discuss in 2023?

Physical exercise and staying in good physical shape is becoming even more important nowadays where people lead busy lives, working from home (often sedentary), the prevalence of obesity is increasing, many people have sedentary jobs etc. Also, there is still many hard physical jobs left where staying in good shape is vital to avoid tear and wear of the body.

What do you want to say to the participants of the course?

Dear participants, I would like to give you a warm welcome to this online-course. I have participated in many Niva courses during the last 10 years, and it has always been a pleasant experience. We will make sure that you bring back the latest knowledge about physical exercise at the workplace. You may also get new people in your network, as we will create discussions in smaller breakout-rooms during the course.

More information: Course webpage
Registration: Course registration
Last registration date: May 3rd 2023