How To Encourage Your Employees To Move More?

Imagine this: your employees are bustling with energy, their moods are uplifted, and productivity soars. Sounds ideal, right? In today’s fast-paced work culture, the reality is often the opposite. Many workplaces are dominated by sedentary lifestyles, leading to health issues, decreased engagement, and reduced efficiency. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Employers have a unique opportunity to foster a culture of movement and fitness that not only benefits their teams but also enhances organizational success.

Physical activity is a cornerstone of overall well-being. Encouraging employees to move more isn’t just about fitness; it’s about cultivating a healthier, happier workforce that thrives in every aspect of their professional and personal lives. The following ideas will help you inspire your employees to prioritize movement and create a vibrant workplace environment.

1. Fitness Trackers

Employers can think of providing their employees with wearables or fitness trackers. The wearables can easily be connected with fitness applications such as Google Fit and Fitbit which could help employees become aware and passionate about their health and fitness. With these fitness trackers, employees can track their behavior such as the number of steps walked and total sitting hours during the day. Employers can organize a walking competition among employees to see who can walk the highest steps in a month.

2. Company Garden

Business owners or HR persons of the company can consider maintaining a garden near office premises. It will allow employees to walk outside, inhale fresh air, and exercise in a pleasant way. According to various researchers, gardening is a kind of less intense cardiovascular activity. Thorough gardening of 40-45 minutes can burn about 150 to 300 calories. Also, gardening is one of the best ways for mental well-being as well as reducing stress & anxiety.

3. Health Clubs

The HR department of the company must come up with some fitness activities at the workplace like health clubs and circles. Currently, walking clubs are in the trend under corporate wellness. Start giving your employees walking breaks that will get them out of their sedentary lifestyle. It will also encourage them to stay fit and productive in the workplace. Additionally, you can step towards forming a company sports group which will help employees have fun by organizing games such as softball, basketball, or any other recreational sports activity based on their interests.

4. Onsite Gym

If your budget allows, consider building an onsite gym in the workplace. Employees will find an on-site gym a convenient way for the physical workout to raise their fitness level. At least 30 minutes of exercise in the gym after office hours will help your employees reduce extra calories. If your organization’s budget doesn’t allow for building an onsite gym, consider partnering with any gym close to the company building and offer discount coupons to your employees on taking the membership. You can also give employees an incentive to do a workout at the gym.

5. Outdoor Activity

Start spreading awareness about the role of outdoor activities in raising fitness levels. Help your employees in taking some hours from their daily routine for outdoor fun and sports activities. You can organize outdoor team walks, walking meetings, group picnics, etc. All such activities encourage them to stay physically active which leads to good health. Ask your employees to walk around the office building while appearing at a conference meeting and occupying seats for 15-20 minutes.

6. Office Exercise

Ask your employees to do some light stretches every time they start with a conference or team meeting. Promote standing desks in such events of group discussions. Exercising will help employees re-energize and boost concentration for a more productive work life. Encourage employees to desk exercise and help them with some simple fitness tips that employees can follow during the day at their desks.

7. Rethink Desks

Various researchers have claimed that a sedentary lifestyle is more dangerous than smoking. A traditional working methodology of corporate organizations insists employees sit for longer working hours a day. Hence, employers must provide their employees with convertible desks. A convertible desk can be converted easily into a standing desk so employees can easily switch their posture from sitting to standing periodically. You can also arrange exercise balls for your employees as a replacement for conventional chairs.

Corporate organizations must invest in employee wellness programs for the health and well-being of their staff. The HR department of the company has an important role to play in building corporate wellness strategies for employees. Also, employers must timely review what actions their company is taking to promote healthy choices and habits among their employees.

8. Raise Awareness About the Benefits of Movement

Educating employees about the importance of physical activity for their health and productivity is crucial. Host wellness seminars, distribute newsletters, or invite fitness experts to talk about ergonomics, stretching techniques, and the risks of prolonged inactivity. When employees understand the benefits, they are more likely to take action.

9. Encourage Active Commutes

Promoting active commuting options such as cycling or walking to work can encourage employees to stay active. Provide bike racks or shower rooms to make commuting by bike or foot more convenient. You can also incentivize active commuting through rewards programs or reimbursements for fitness-related purchases like running shoes or bike gear.

10. Host Wellness Events

Organize events like fitness workshops, yoga sessions, or Zumba classes at the workplace. These events create an engaging platform for employees to participate in physical activities, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Wellness events can be scheduled during office hours or as part of team-building activities.

11. Leverage Technology for Virtual Fitness

Incorporate virtual fitness programs for employees who work remotely or in hybrid setups. Partner with fitness trainers or platforms to provide virtual workout sessions, yoga classes, or mindfulness exercises. This ensures that employees in various locations can still stay active and connected with wellness initiatives.

12. Create a Culture of Movement

Encourage a workplace culture where movement is normalized and celebrated. For example, introduce "movement breaks" during long meetings or designate areas in the office for stretching or quick exercises. Celebrate employees who actively participate in wellness initiatives and share success stories to inspire others.

Final Thoughts

Investing in employee wellness programs benefits both employees and the organization. A physically active workforce is more likely to be healthy, motivated, and productive. By creating a supportive environment that encourages movement and physical activity, employers can foster a culture of well-being that positively impacts the entire organization. Regularly review and adapt wellness initiatives based on employee feedback to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability. Start small, remain consistent, and watch your workplace transform into a hub of health and productivity.