Walk the Block

Walk the Block

Victoria Walks is aiming to combat workplace physical inactivity by developing the event - Walk the Block. The aim is simple: to get people away from their desks and onto their feet.

Walk the Block was a fun and lively event that brings together employees from corporate organisations, government departments and other workplaces across Victoria to walk their block on Tuesday 17 May 2011 (download flyer).

The event has been developed by Victoria Walks to promote four simple workplace walking ideas:

• Walking groups - regular walks for fit and friendly workplaces.
• Walking meetings - step out for active and productive conversations.
• Walkabout inductions - for new staff to learn what is close by.
• ‘In your stride’ - quick and easy tips to keep staff moving at work.

Resources for each of these initiatives will be sent to workplaces so that walking can easily be incorporated into organisations’ working culture.

Walk the Block a state wide success!

The event attracted thousands of people from organisations large and small, including several university and government departments, 25 local councils and numerous companies interested in promoting healthier, more active workplaces.

We're thrilled that workplaces from all corners of Victoria got involved (see map and photos)!

Thank you to VECCI and VicHealth for supporting the event.

Why employers should care about getting employees active

Many of us spend around a third or more of our day at work. This often involves sitting at a desk or in a relatively confined space for hours on end. This is having lasting, adverse effects on our physical and mental health.

Recent studies show a direct link between prolonged periods of sitting and increased incidence of cardio-vascular diseases, even for people who are generally healthy.  Essentially, sedentary behaviour is costing workers and employers in many ways.

It is estimated that:

• Return on investment for workplace wellness programs could be as much as 3 to 12
• Workplace physical activity can reduce sick leave by up to 32% and increase productivity by up to 52%
• Poor employee health and absenteeism is costing Australian business $7 billion annually.