Leaders have a clear role in shaping workplace culture and promoting staff well-being, and with the right support, the benefits to team members and team performance can be considerable. To support your efforts, this month’s newsletter focuses on the benefits of encouraging staff to take a brisk walking break and shares the links and PDFs to share.
Why Promote Brisk Walks
Research shows a growing range of poor mental and physical health outcomes as our lives and work have become more sedentary. Encouraging staff to take a brisk 10-minute walk during breaks is one simple way to enhance individual and organisational health outcomes. Research shows that even a short walk can boost energy, improve mood, and reduce stress—crucial benefits in today’s high-pressure, sedentary work environments. For computer-based workers, who often face aches, tension, and fatigue from long hours at their desks, a midday walk offers a refreshing reset that can alleviate discomfort and enhance productivity.
Better still, beyond physical health, walking stimulates creativity and problem-solving, leading to clearer thinking and innovative ideas. Leaders who actively support and promote these breaks demonstrate a commitment to employee wellness, resulting in higher morale, reduced absenteeism, and better overall performance. By integrating simple walking initiatives, organisations can cultivate a healthier, more engaged, and resilient workforce.
Brisk Walk Benefits Summary
A brisk walk offers many physical, mental, and creative benefits that significantly enhance your well-being. Here are just some of the top advantages:
Pain Relief Benefits | Going for a brisk walk helps: 1. Reduces Joint Pain, 2. Eases Back Pain, 3. Decreases Muscle Stiffness, 4. Relieves Neck and Shoulder Tension, 5. Improves Circulation:
Health Benefits | There are many, including: 1. Supports Weight Management, 2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety, 3. Improves Sleep Quality, 4. Strengthens Bones and Muscles, 5. Boosts Immune System, 6. Lowers Blood Sugar, 7. Improves Mental Clarity and Focus,
Creativity Benefits| Got a problem? Go for a walk! Walking helps to: 1. Sparks Creative Thinking, 2. Boosts Imagination, 3. Encourages Mindful Reflection:
These are just some of the benefits of encouraging an increase in walking at work. The attached PDF provides greater detail.
How to Share
Creating dedicated time in team meetings and company newsletters to discuss health, safety, and well-being at work can foster a positive workplace culture. By introducing the benefits of incorporating a brisk walk into the day and inviting your team to share their ideas on how to support each other, you’ll boost engagement and help your team thrive. Remember, as a leader, your active participation in Brisk Walk Breaks is essential—leading by example will inspire your team to embrace these healthy habits and contribute to a more energised and productive workforce.
Useful Links
- Active 10 | https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/ |
- The Free Active 10 programs promote the benefits of taking 3 x 10-minute brisk walks each day.
- This link also provides a range of free health resources.
- Small Changes Project | https://beyondergo.com.au/small-changes-project/
- This Beyond Ergo page promotes a range of free resources and all the simple actions to support health, safety and wellbeing at work.
- PDF | Brisk Walk Benefits Checklist | Click Here
- PDF | Easy Ways to Build a 10-Minute Walk into Your Day | Click Here
If you have found this information useful, please share it with colleagues who may also find it helpful.