Effects of Work-Life Imbalance on Physical Activity : The Moderating Roles of Extrinsic Motivation and Segmentation Preference

Purpose: This research aims to explore the mechanisms through which work-life imbalance negatively impacts employees’ physical activity. Additionally, it seeks to develop a comprehensive model that encourages participation in motion-based leisure activities, thereby enhancing their psychological and physical well-being.<br/> Method: This research employs a survey-based methodology involving 233 respondents who are currently working full-time. The study examines the moderating effects of extrinsic motivation and segmentation preference on the relationship between work-life imbalance and physical activity. Additionally, it investigated the mediating effect of physical activity in linking perceptions of work-life imbalance with psychological well-being.<br/> Results: The results demonstrated that (1) work-life imbalance negatively impacted psychological wellbeing by reducing physical activity, and (2) perceptions of work-life imbalance were negatively associated with physical activity levels. The negative relationship between work-life imbalance and physical activity was further intensified among employees with high extrinsic motivation and a strong segmentation preference.<br/> Conclusion: This research suggests that organizational initiatives promoting physical activity may be perceived as burdensome or uncontrollable by overworked employess, potentially backfiring. A new approach for contemporary organizational office workers to be involved in psychologically and physically healthy lifestyles is discussed.