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Did you know physically active workers in Canada lose 10 fewer workdays of productivity per year compared to their sedentary counterparts? Additionally, employees motivated to improve their health lose 14 fewer days of productivity annually than those who aren’t interested in improving their well-being. These statistics highlight a compelling case for prevention and promotion within workplace wellness programs.

As shorter days and less sunlight encourage sedentary behaviors, the workplace can serve as a critical space for inspiring movement and counteracting these trends. Promoting physical activity through intentional initiatives can significantly impact employee well-being and productivity.

Simple Steps to Inspire Movement

Highlight Local Opportunities

  • Post walking routes around the building, nearby green spaces, or park systems.
  • Share brochures for local community events, races, or hiking trails to inspire outdoor adventures.
  • Encourage team participation in community walks, runs, or other group activities.

Engage Experts 

  • Invite a local speaker or organization to discuss the benefits of movement, particularly as the seasons change.
  • Provide practical advice: What to wear, how to layer clothing, and selecting the best footwear for different activities. Preparing employees for physical activity reduces the risk of injury and increases enjoyment.

Onsite or Virtual Classes

  • Host onsite or virtual exercise classes to make activity accessible to all employees.
  • Incentivize participation with recognition or small rewards to boost engagement.
  • Encourage managers to champion these initiatives and remind teams about upcoming events.

Make Movement Fun with Challenges 

  • Organize team-based challenges to inspire friendly competition.
  • Use apps to track steps or minutes of movement—ensure participation is inclusive for all employees, tech-savvy or not.
  • Gamify the experience with goals, prizes, or recognition to keep teams motivated.

Best Practices for Success 

  • Secure management support to demonstrate leadership buy-in.
  • Plan and promote initiatives at least 4–6 weeks in advance to ensure strong participation.
  • Keep activities visible, engaging, and aligned with the overarching wellness strategy.
  • Consider a themed health fair to showcase all movement-focused initiatives in a fun and interactive way.

Promoting physical activity within workplace wellness programs is a strategic investment in employee health and productivity. Whether through walking routes, fitness classes, or team challenges, creating opportunities for movement can make a lasting difference in employee well-being and organizational success.

What will your workplace do to get moving?

Need some more assistance?

Get your FREE No-Obligation Strategy Session by emailing us today (info@ewsnetwork.com). Employee Wellness Solutions Network can help you create a healthier culture resulting in a more profitable and successful workplace. Our memberships give you access to services including corporate wellness specialists, trainers and health coaches to help you create the best strategy for your organization.