More than half of UK employees say their job is affecting their physical health, according to new research on how working conditions are influencing both physical and mental wellbeing across the workforce.
The research, from fitness network EGYM Hussle, shows that 52% of UK workers report negative physical health impacts linked directly to their job. A further 41% say their mental health is also being affected, while 62% are concerned about the long term health consequences of their working lives.
This concern comes alongside wider public health pressures, with more than 5 million sick days linked to mental health. Across all workers surveyed, the trend points to increasing awareness of how work patterns are shaping health outcomes. While concern is high globally at 76%, the UK is already seeing measurable impacts on employee health and day to day functioning.
Work Patterns, Sedentary Behaviour and Sleep Disruption
The research identifies working habits as a key factor behind declining wellbeing. In the UK, 70% of employees say their job leads to more sedentary behaviour, while half report disrupted sleep patterns. Both are widely associated with longer term health risks including chronic conditions and burnout.
When compared with global averages, UK employees report higher levels of physical health impact at 52% versus 46%. Sleep disruption is also slightly higher in the UK at 50% compared with 47% globally, while mental health strain stands at 41% compared with 39%.
The findings suggest that modern working environments may be contributing to cumulative health pressures. These effects are already being felt in day to day performance, with 34% of UK employees saying health issues such as stress and chronic fatigue have affected how well they perform at work.
Wellbeing is also playing a growing role in retention. Around 60% of employees say workplace wellbeing influences whether they stay in their job, yet only 36% report being satisfied with the support currently provided by employers.
Employee Health Concerns Grow
With employment law changes expected in April 2026, attention on workplace health is likely to increase further. The findings suggest that employers may need to take a more structured approach to supporting employee wellbeing as expectations continue to shift.
“This data shows that for many UK employees, the impact of work on their health is not a distant concern, it is already taking its toll. When nearly half of workers say their physical health is being affected, it signals a clear need for change,” said Pauline Alonso, Employee Wellness Expert at Hussle.
“When employers prioritise wellbeing, whether through greater flexibility, stronger culture or better access to fitness and wellness support, they will be better placed to protect their people and their performance.”