Movement isn’t just good for our physical health, it’s also great for our cognitive health.
A study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management revealed that 72% of participants showed improvement in time management and workload completed on days they exercised.
Additionally, regular exercise is associated with other benefits such as higher energy levels, better mood, reduced stress, and improved sleep quality leading to less illness, fewer absences, more productive workdays, and increased engagement and collaboration.
With many jobs involving sitting most of the day, it should be no surprise that only 1 in 3 adults meet the recommended amount of physical activity each week, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
So, what can employers do to encourage their employees to get more exercise?
1. Allow for on-the-clock exercise time.
More companies are allowing employees to take time during the workday to move. If you have the space for a gym, consider adding one in, or, if not possible, work in paid time where they can exercise; it can be at the start of the day, lunchtime, or the day’s end.
2. Offer gym membership or class packages as part of employee benefits.
One of the best ways to encourage employees to exercise is by offering this paid perk. Some employees may be hesitant to invest in a gym membership or workout classes because of the financial commitment, so including this in your benefits shows employees you’re invested in their wellbeing.
3. Encourage walking during the workday.
Create a culture of walking in your workplace by taking walking meetings or lunches with coworkers or having weekly or monthly competitions for who takes the most steps. Walking is one of the best and easiest ways to maintain good overall health, so make it fun!
4. Educate employees on the many benefits of exercise through a newsletter or virtual bulletin board.
Some employees may not realize how beneficial movement is for their overall wellbeing until they’ve tried it and stuck to it for a while. Entice them with interesting stats, facts, and tips to get them excited about moving!
VitaliTeam Workplace Wellness helps companies build thriving cultures with a focus on whole-person well-being, social connection, and data-based organizational health initiatives.
Schedule a discovery call today to learn more about how we can help you promote overall organizational health and the individual wellbeing of each member of your team while boosting productivity and profitability.
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Adeola Mead is a Naturopathic Physician with 15+ years of clinical and corporate consultancy experience.
Vitaliteam Workplace Wellness provides and curates health/wellness services and experiences centered on holistic, personalized care for individuals while fostering social connection and positive team cultures.
We are a “Boutique EAP” agency that is hyper focused on identifying and comprehensively addressing the root cause issues underlying individual and organizational health concerns.
Contact us for a complimentary health consult or corporate wellness discovery call.