6 ways to get people moving at work this winter
As temperatures drop and days get shorter, our habits gradually change. We tend to rely more on cars, go for fewer walks after work and spend less time outdoors. As a result, movement becomes less and less part of our daily routine.
But winter is no reason to put our bodies on pause! Staying active helps maintain energy levels, concentration and mental well-being. And the good news is that a few simple habits can make a real difference. In this article, discover practical ways to incorporate more movement into the working day.
1. Make the most of everyday opportunities to move
There are often more opportunities to walk throughout the day than we realise.
A few simple habits can easily be incorporated into the working day:
- Take the stairs instead of the lift.
- Walk over to a colleague instead of sending them a message.
- Take certain phone calls or meetings while walking.
Individually, these actions may seem insignificant. However, when added together, they create more opportunities to move throughout the day.
2. Launch a team step challenge
A Step Challenge is a fun way to encourage employees to walk more throughout the day. The concept is simple: everyone tracks their steps using an app and takes part in a collective challenge.
To keep motivation high, companies can create teams and track their progress throughout the challenge.
Beyond physical activity, this initiative encourages interaction between colleagues, strengthens team spirit and brings employees together around a shared goal. All without having to set aside additional time in their schedules!
3. Bring movement directly to the workplace
Sitting all day doesn’t have to be inevitable. Today, new solutions make it possible to bring more movement into the working day without completely changing existing routines.
One example is the Eveia under-desk pedal exerciser, designed to be used while seated at a desk.
It allows employees to pedal while carrying on with their usual work. With several resistance levels, the effort can be adjusted to suit individual preferences and fitness levels.
Combined with its dedicated app, Eveia also allows users to track their activity, exercise duration and estimated calories burned.
It’s an interesting solution for employees who spend much of their working day sitting down and want to incorporate more movement, even on their busiest days.
4. Organise physical activity classes at the workplace
Yoga, Pilates, strength training or stretching: offering classes directly at the workplace makes regular physical activity more accessible.
Sessions can be organised before the working day begins or during the lunch break, making it easier for employees to fit them into their schedules. They provide an opportunity to get moving, maintain flexibility and enjoy some valuable time for themselves.
They are also a great way to share an activity with colleagues and strengthen team spirit.
5. Stretch and change positions regularly
Sometimes, just a few minutes are enough to break away from the usual office routine. Standing up, stretching, moving the shoulders or gently stretching the back are all simple ways to take an active break during the day.
Height-adjustable desks also make it possible to alternate between sitting and standing, depending on the task and individual preferences.
Companies can encourage these habits by making simple exercises available to employees, helping them incorporate movement into their daily routines.
6. Organise team sporting events
Taking part in a local walk, running event or sporting challenge together is a great way to encourage physical activity while strengthening relationships between colleagues.
Companies can organise group registrations, create teams or take part in sporting events in their local area. Everyone can get involved according to their own interests and abilities, without necessarily focusing on performance.
Beyond physical activity, these events provide an opportunity to share experiences outside the usual workplace environment, create lasting memories and strengthen employees’ sense of belonging.
Conclusion
Physical activity doesn’t necessarily have to involve intense exercise. More often than not, it’s the small habits we repeat day after day that make the difference.
For companies, the challenge is to create an environment that encourages people to move by offering initiatives that fit different routines and individual needs.
Ultimately, supporting employees’ energy and well-being also means giving them more opportunities to move, whatever the season!