Our Re:fresh 2024 global study revealed key exercise trends in seafarers while onboard:
- 39% of seafarers don’t exercise frequently enough
- 40% aren’t reaching the recommended intensity during exercise
- 41% aren’t meeting the guideline of exercising for at least 30 minutes per session
Exercise is vital for both physical and mental wellbeing, which is especially crucial for seafarers as their health is key to safety and performance. Those who exercised more frequently reported fewer muscular and skeletal issues, lower stress levels, and improved overall wellbeing. These findings highlight the positive impact of regular exercise.
According to the World Health Organization, a sedentary lifestyle can be detrimental to our health. Finding way to encourage seafarers to incorporate exercise while onboard is an effective way to protect and enhance their physical and mental wellbeing.
 How much should we be exercising?
A minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity per day significantly lowers the risk of illness. Moderate physical activity includes brisk walking, getting slightly out of breath, and reaching 50-60% of your maximum heart rate. However, if you aim to improve health or reduce fat levels, a higher dose of physical activity is necessary. Remember, the more you exercise, the greater the benefits—especially when you give it your all. The best part of all is that it is never too late to start exercising!
