How to Improve Employee Health and Wellbeing Through Movement

Employee health and wellbeing is an increasingly important topic in today's workplace. One crucial factor affecting wellbeing is the amount of time today’s workforce spends sitting down. Prolonged sitting is known to have negative effects on health, and despite efforts to introduce more dynamic and productive work environments, the average person still spends about 8.9 hours a day sitting, according to the Get Britain Standing Campaign.

Research suggests that sitting for more than 4 hours a day can lead to the following:

• Enzymes responsible for burning harmful blood fats shutting down
• Reduced calorie burning (metabolic rate)
• Disrupted blood sugar levels
• Increased insulin and blood pressure levels
• Joint problems

Clearly, these outcomes are far from ideal. So, what can organisations and managers do to improve their employees’ wellbeing.

Get Employees Moving

If you or your team regularly sit for long periods, here are practical strategies to get everyone moving more:

1. Introduce Sit-Standing Desks
   Many companies are adopting sit-standing desks. While it takes some time to adjust, the benefits are clear. It’s recommended to gradually increase the time spent standing over a few months. A helpful tip: invest in a floor mat to cushion the pressure on your joints.

2. Stand During Phone Calls
   Standing while making phone calls not only benefits your physical health but also helps you use your non-verbal body language more effectively compared to sitting at a desk.

3. Work in Time Blocks with Breaks
   Productivity experts recommend working in blocks of time followed by short breaks. Tony Schwartz, President of the Energy Project, advocates for 90-minute work blocks with breaks, based on sleep research. During breaks, employees can walk around the office, take the stairs, or engage in light stretching or desk exercises.

4. Encourage Face-to-Face Conversations
   Instead of sending another email or making a phone call, encourage team members to walk across the office for a quick, five-minute conversation. It’s a simple but effective way to get moving.

Working on the Move

While office-based work is familiar to many, it doesn’t always have to be the norm. With today’s technology, employees can work from almost anywhere. Offering flexible working options can improve both wellbeing and productivity.

Encourage Fitness on the Commute

Commuting can be stressful, with 45% of workers reporting stressful journeys to the office, according to the British Council for Offices. Encourage employees to walk part of the way to work or cycle when possible. Installing cycle racks and providing access to shower facilities can further motivate employees to stay active.

Get Fit at Work

If your company offers a gym or corporate gym memberships, how many employees are taking advantage of it? Consider offering incentives to encourage employees to use these facilities regularly.

Address Volume and Lighting

While many offices are designed to be quiet and conducive to productivity, this isn’t always the case. Constant phone ringing, multiple conversations, and general noise can create a distracting environment, leading to frustrated and less productive employees. These issues can be addressed through thoughtful office design—using sound-absorbing surfaces, carpets, and furniture can make a significant difference.

Additionally, bringing elements of the outdoors inside can improve wellbeing. Research from the World Green Building Council suggests that employees with an outside view can be up to 25% more productive and process tasks 12% faster. Introducing more natural light or enhancing existing lighting can have a noticeable impact on performance.

Leading by Example

Whatever initiatives your organisation currently has (or doesn’t have) in place, it’s important for leaders to set the tone. When team members see their leaders taking breaks, getting active during the day, and encouraging movement, they’re more likely to follow suit.

By making small changes, such as encouraging movement, improving office design, and fostering flexible working, you can significantly enhance employee wellbeing and create a more productive work environment.

Many thanks,

Alex & The Excel Team

P.S. If you would like to discuss any of your other learning & development challenges, book in your discovery call.

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