The effectiveness of aerobic training in leisure time on burnout of midwives: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Burnout is associated with serious negative health consequences. Midwifes due to stressful work are more likely to experience burnout. This study was performed with the aim to determine the effect of aerobic exercise training in leisure time on burnout of midwives. This randomized clinical trial was performed on 60 midwives working in Health Centers of Mashhad in 2013. The subjects were randomly divided in to two groups of cases and control. Maslach Burnout questionnaire was completed before and after aerobic training. The subjects in intervention group participated in exercise training as group in exercise club for 45 minutes, three times a week, for 8 weeks with intensity of 30 to 60 percent of maximum oxygen consumption. Data were analyzed with SPSS software (version 19) and using Independent t-student, Paired t-test, Mann-Whitney and Chi square test. Mean of emotional exhaustion (14.3±9.8 at the baseline and 7.4±8.1 at the end of the study) and depersonalization (5.4±2.3 at the baseline and 2.0±1.5 at the end of the study) were reduced after 8-weeks of aerobic exercise (P<0.05). Also, mean of personal accomplishment (35.0±9.0 at the baseline and 41.3±7.2 at the end of the study) was increased (P<0.05). Performance of exercise program reduces burnout in midwives. Therefore, preventive measures through performance of exercise programs should be done.