[3-min read] How Can Companies Support Employees Being Active?

In today’s fast-paced business environment, it’s easy for employees to become sedentary and inactive. This may be particularly relevant for desk-based employees who sit at a desk for long hours, staring at a computer screen and driving to and from work. 

Dealing with the stress of tight deadlines and heavy workloads can all contribute to a lack of physical activity. 

However, as companies begin to recognize the importance of employee wellness, many are starting to implement wellness programs and initiatives to support employees in being more active.

One way for companies to support employees in being more active is by encouraging them to take regular breaks throughout the day. Sitting for long periods of time can be detrimental to both physical and mental health, and taking regular breaks can help to counteract this. Employers can encourage employees to take short breaks to stretch, walk around, or even do a quick workout during their lunch hour. This can help to boost energy levels, improve focus, and reduce stress. Some companies are choosing to offer Ergonomics sessions or even ergonomics workplace assessments to help with this.

Another way for companies to support employees in being more active is by creating an active work environment. This can include things like standing desks, treadmill desks, or even an on-site gym. These types of environments can help to promote physical activity and encourage employees to move more throughout the day. Additionally, companies can also encourage employees to take the stairs instead of the elevator and park further away from the entrance to encourage more steps.

Companies can also organize employee-led fitness programs, such as walking or running groups, yoga classes, or sports teams. These types of programs can help to create a sense of community and camaraderie among employees, and also encourage regular physical activity. Employers can also offer incentives for employees who participate in these programs, such as gift cards or time off.

Staying fit and active can also be built into the company culture and team building. For example, organizing a quarterly corporate wellness day such as a Beach Olympics can be a great way to help improve employee morale and physical activity.

Another way to help with this is by encouraging employees to get out and about during their work day. In the Winter months, encourage employees to go for a walk together over their lunch break. Lead from the front and schedule a 20 minute walking meeting and grab a coffee on the way, instead of sitting in an office. The change of scenery and pace can also help to encourage creativity and stimulation. 

Make it a family affair and incentivise employees to get active by taking part in group challenges. For example, a 2 week steps challenge or sponsoring employees to commit to a 5K family run.

Another way companies can support employees being active is by promoting healthy eating habits. Employers can provide healthy food options in the office, offer cooking classes, or even provide subsidies for gym memberships or personal training. By promoting healthy habits, companies can help to prevent chronic health conditions and improve overall employee wellness.

In addition, companies can also offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible schedules, which can help to reduce stress and improve work-life balance. This can allow employees to have more time to focus on their physical and mental health, and be more active.

Finally, companies can also offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) through insurance brokers such as Beneple, that provide resources and support for employees to manage stress, improve mental health, and promote overall wellness. This can include things like counseling, financial advice, and support for addiction and recovery.

By implementing corporate wellness programs and initiatives, companies can help to improve employee wellness, reduce stress, and create a more engaged and productive workforce.

If you would like to have a chat with regard to your corporate wellness programs, please get in touch.