Regular physical activity, for 60 minutes, 4 - 7 days of the week, has many health benefits. However, getting started or maintaining an active lifestyle can sometimes be difficult, especially when the majority of adults spend more than half their day at work. Employers can help support their employees by following some of the ideas listed below for promoting active living in the workplace.
Tips for Employers
- Encourage employees to use the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. Make sure all stairways are well-lit and safe, and if possible, make them more appealing by decorating. Visit Stairway to Health
for more information or order copies of Take The Stairs fact sheet for your employees.
- Provide bike racks to encourage employees to bike to work. Organize a commuter challenge .
- Provide lockers and showers on site to encourage employees to be active before work, during lunch, and after work.
- Encourage corporate sports teams, such as soccer, baseball and hockey.
- Arrange for corporate discounts or group rates at a local fitness or recreational centre.
- Encourage your employees to walk at lunch using Walk This Way, a self-help kit designed to assist men and women become more active.
- Start a walking challenge using pedometers to motivate your employees to get active. Visit the Ministry of Health Promotion Active 2010 website for more information.
Resources to Promote Active Living in Your Workplace
Related Links
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