Strategies For a Movement Friendly Workplace
Our article during Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19 May) covers some top strategies for a movement-friendly workplace, with information sourced from the Wellbeing Project, emphasising the importance of physical movement for employee mental health, with the theme of Movement: Moving More For Our Mental Health.
Citing research from BMC Public Health (2024) highlights that office workers spend a significant portion of their time sitting, which not only affects physical health negatively but also poses risks to mental wellbeing, as prolonged sitting has been linked to increased anxious and depressive symptoms (Rebar et al., 2014).
Here are a few strategies The Wellbeing Project suggest to increase your employee’s movement:
Organising Movement-Based Challenges
Employers can foster camaraderie and healthy competition by introducing challenges centred around physical activity, encouraging individuals or teams to achieve specific movement goals.
Encouraging Walking Meetings
Managers can promote walking or standing meetings, citing research that shows such meetings not only offer physical benefits but also enhance innovation, collaboration, and communication (Oppezo and Scwartz, 2014).
Investing in Standing Desks
Standing desks offer a simple yet effective way to reduce sedentary time and support musculoskeletal health, potentially leading to psychological benefits as well (Pronk et al., 2011).
Organising Regular Group Activities
Group activities like yoga classes, running clubs, or lunchtime walks not only promote physical movement but also foster social bonding and reduce stress.
Offering Discounts for Gym Memberships or Fitness Classes
Partnering with local gyms or fitness centres can help alleviate financial barriers to exercise for employees.
In conclusion, these suggestions underscore the importance of regular movement for maintaining a healthy workforce and suggest implementing these strategies to empower employees to prioritise physical activity, thereby supporting their physical and mental health. It also promotes workshops designed to support mental and physical wellbeing, aligning with Mental Health Awareness Week.
