Muscular fitness and re-employment among unemployed job seekers in Finland: A three-year follow-up study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Research suggests that health is an important determinant of re-employment. However, the association between specific physical health components, such as muscular fitness, and re-employment has not been well studied.

OBJECTIVE: In a three-year follow-up of unemployed people, we investigated whether muscular fitness is associated with re-employment.

METHODS: In 2002–2005, unemployed people (n=130) who were participants in active labour market policy measures were recruited to participate in a Career Health Care (CHC) project. Data on background characteristics and muscular fitness were collected in 2002/2003 using a questionnaire and laboratory measurements. Clientship in the CHC lasted for three years, and at its end, participants' employment status was assessed by a questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to investigate the association between baseline muscular fitness (repetitive lift, sit-ups, and squats) and re-employment after three years.

RESULTS: The probability of re-employment within three years significantly increased with improved performances on muscular fitness tests (lifting, sit-up, and squatting) after adjustment for age and gender.

CONCLUSIONS: Unemployed people with good muscular fitness had increased probability for re-employment as compared to those with poor muscular fitness.