Exercise: who needs it?

Nurses will be involved in delivering the UK Government's 'Choosing Activity: a physical activity action plan' (Department of Health, 2005), so it is important to ensure that nurses benefit from the implementation of this policy. It is accepted that in some areas of nursing, the daily routine can be physically and mentally demanding; all the more reason to examine lifestyle and the benefits of exercise. This article considers some factors that may affect nurses' physical and mental health. The potential value of the Healthy Workplace Award Scheme is discussed and some recommendations are made about future strategies that employers could adopt or develop to give nurses the opportunity to improve their physical and mental well-being within the workplace. These opportunities could improve nurses' health and impact on the care nurses provide.