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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Work Ability of Finnish Physical Education Teachers

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In the physical education (PE) teachers’ profession, physical tasks comprise a large part of the job. PE teachers identify their health as good, and they are satisfied with their job. Nevertheless, the work ability of PE teachers may be decreasing. Purpose: The purpose of this article was to explore the work ability of Finnish PE teachers. What disorders or physical problems do PE teachers experience as a result of their job, and how do they affect job satisfaction? Are there differences between men and women or older and younger teachers? Of the Finnish PE teachers (N = 655), 31% reported that they had at least one disease or disorder that hindered their work ability. The most common were musculoskeletal disorders. PE teachers identified knee and back problems in particular. Good ability to work was related to higher job satisfaction.