Experiences and Perceptions of Recovery From Work Through Physical Activity Among Finnish Higher Education Personnel – A Qualitative Study

Abstract Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and active breaks enhance recovery from work. This qualitative study, based on a larger cross-sectional survey, explored experiences and perceptions of recovery through physical activity among higher education personnel. Data were collected with a survey during 1‒2/2025 among Finnish higher education personnel members who belonged to a professional association ( N = 1578). The experiences and perceptions of recovery through physical activity were gathered using open questions. Of 229 participants, 33 were selected for this qualitative study based on moderate and vigorous LTPA frequency: 14 with ≥ 5 moderate and vigorous LTPA days per week (i.e., high LTPA group) and 19 without moderate and vigorous LTPA (zero days per week) (i.e., no LTPA group). Data were analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis. As a result of qualitative content analysis, the facilitating and challenging factors for recovery from work through physical activity were identified from the perspectives of groups with high LTPA and no LTPA. Facilitating factors included positive experiences and perceptions, circumstances, and physical activity behaviour. Challenging factors comprised health, work-related psychological, motivational, and environmental challenges. Among Finnish higher education personnel with high levels of moderate and vigorous LTPA, as well as those with none, physical activity has both restorative and non-restorative aspects and influences diverse recovery experiences. These aspects and recovery experiences should be considered when building a physically active work culture in higher education and when supporting employees in finding meaningful opportunities for LTPA to promote recovery from work.