Workplace Walking Ideas

Workplace walking can involve a formal program at work, or just a few workmates encouraging each other to walk a bit more. Some of these ideas are easy to put in place quite easily, while others will require a bit more support from your organisation.

Skip the lift

Did you know that walking just two flights of stairs per day can lead to 2.7 kg weight loss over one year?

Taking the stairs can often be quicker than waiting for the elevator, especially if you're going between floors.

Plus, it's a great workout, for free!

Walking meetings

Fancy a meeting where you can smell the roses, take a walk in the park or have a think while on your feet?

Walking meetings are a great way to get ideas and conversations flowing while giving yourself some fresh air and a spring in your step.

Snack-sized power walks

Did you know that the National Physical Activity Guidelines recommends that adults have at least 30 minutes of daily moderate intensity physical activity ?

You can achieve this through short 'snack sized' bouts of activity, such as a few 10 minute walking breaks every day. 

Workmates. Walkmates.

Workplace walking groups are perfect for getting your team off their seats. 

It’s a great way to build the team, strengthen connections and make a few more friends, while getting fit and healthy at the same time.

Walking to meetings

Fancy arriving at meetings feeling refreshed and full of ideas? An easy way to get a workout at work is to walk to nearby meetings.

Or, combine walking with catching public transport. This means you can also catch up on some reading or pre-plan your meeting while enjoying the scenery.

Start and finish the day right

Why wait until you get to work to change your life. Walking to and from work hast the potential to make a big difference to your health and wellbeing.

Did you know that people who catch public transport averaged 41 minutes of walking each day compared to 8 minutes for those who drive?  Research from the UK found that public transport users were 81% less likely to become obese over time and the average person could lose around 3 kgs within a year, just by walking to catch the bus, train or tram!

If it’s too far to walk to work, how about:

• Walking to the train station instead of driving?
• Getting off a stop or two before your destination to give yourself a longer route?
• If you have to drive, parking further away so you get a workout on the way to work?

Develop your routine gradually and give yourself rewards for your efforts - a great morning coffee, or a present to yourself for the petrol and parking money you would otherwise have spent, or the cost of gym membership that you may have saved!

Take the active option

It’s true that the little things can make a world of difference. Check out the table below to see how you can get a bit more activity into every day, all without a hint of lycra!

Source: www.doncaster.gov.uk

More resources and workplace walking stories