Strategies for Employers to Encourage Physical Activity in the Workplace

Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic illnesses, enhancing mental well-being, and boosting productivity at work. Despite these advantages, many individuals do not meet recommended activity levels, especially given the substantial amount of time spent working. The World Health Organization suggests adults aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity. Incorporating physical activity into the workday or commute can help bridge this gap.

Research conducted with the Institute for Work and Health highlights several evidence-based strategies employers can adopt to promote an active lifestyle among employees. These strategies range from providing access to amenities and programs to fostering a supportive environment that values movement.

1. Promoting Movement Throughout the Day Employers can encourage employees to incorporate activity into their routine by offering facilities like walking paths, bike lanes, sports fields, gyms, or organized fitness classes. Providing amenities such as showers and changing rooms can facilitate activity during breaks. A large study found that workplaces offering such comprehensive programs doubled the likelihood of employees being active and increased moderate activity levels. Promoting features like nearby parks and fitness centers can also motivate employees to stay active.

2. Emphasizing the Value of Any Movement Recognizing that even small amounts of physical activity are beneficial is crucial. Data shows that workers who engage in some movement have significantly lower risks of heart disease compared to sedentary counterparts. For example, exercisers with higher activity levels reduce their heart disease risk by over 40%, but even those who move occasionally see benefits. It's important to communicate that every bit of movement contributes positively to health.

3. Supporting Internal Champions Workplace wellness champions, whether formal mentors or informal passionate colleagues, can be highly effective in motivating others. Supporting these champions with resources and recognition enhances their impact. Additionally, addressing upstream factors like work conditions and organizational policies—such as flexibility, workload, and supervisor support—is vital for fostering an environment conducive to physical activity.

Overall, making physical activity accessible and encouraging within the workplace leads to healthier employees who are less prone to chronic diseases, more resilient to stress, and more engaged. Employers who create an environment that supports movement and healthy behaviors will benefit from reduced absences, enhanced performance, and increased job satisfaction.

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