It is widely understood that the more a muscle is challenged, the stronger it gets. Now, researchers at Loughborough University have put this to the test by describing how the psychological ‘muscle’ also positively adapts following physical challenge.
In partnership with The Leadership High, colleagues from the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences investigated the impact on workplace performance of those exposed to various physical challenges.
The researchers designed studies with the aim of better understanding the links between physical challenge, people’s mindset, and organisational setting. Using some of the latest scientific approaches, including randomised controlled trials and mixed methods, they studied the effects of different physical challenges in nature (for example, a high rope course, skiing) and the laboratory (for example, a cold tolerance task) on aspects of people’s mindset and workplace performance.