Affiliations: School of Health Sciences, University of Tampere,
Tampere, Finland
Note: [] Corresponding author: Chioma Nwaru, School of Health Sciences, FIN-33014, University of Tampere, Tampere,
Finland. Tel.: 358 442019495; Fax: +358 335516057; E-mail: chioma.nwaru@uta.fi
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.
Keywords: Health, selection, Career Health Care, unemployment
