Creating a workplace that prioritizes movement is one of the most effective strategies for building a healthier and more resilient workforce. Promoting physical activity at work improves employee satisfaction, reduces absenteeism, and strengthens productivity. The benefits extend beyond individual well-being and contribute directly to organizational performance and long-term cost savings.
Policies, Systems, and Environments That Support Physical Activity
Workplace activity programs are most effective when they are supported by strong policies, systems, and environments. Organizations do not need to start from scratch. Evidence-based, low-cost solutions can create meaningful change while advancing equity and inclusion.
Policies
- Encourage and incentivize active commuting such as walking, biking, or using public transportation.
- Implement a short “booster break” policy that allows time for stretching or light activity during the workday.
- Support walking meetings when feasible.
- Schedule brief stretching periods at the start of shifts or during long meetings.
- Provide flexible scheduling that allows employees time for physical activity.
Systems
- Integrate physical activity programs into employee benefit plans by offering gym subsidies, wellness stipends, or transit incentives.
- Extend wellness benefits to employees’ families to support healthy behaviors at home.
- Include physical activity goals in broader health and wellness initiatives across the organization.
Environments
- Create spaces that make movement easy and accessible, such as on-site fitness areas, changing rooms, lockers, or showers.
- Install secure bike racks and covered areas for active commuters.
- Design stairways that are visible, well-lit, and inviting to encourage use.
- Incorporate walking or biking trails around office campuses or nearby areas.
- Use motivational prompts and signage to remind employees to move throughout the day.
Want to Take Action?
- Sign the CEO Pledge
- Use the resources listed below to learn more about how to use evidence-based resources to drive meaningful change.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Change Tool (Worksite Sector)
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Move Your Way® Community Resources
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2018
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. What’s Your Role – Employers
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Worksite Physical Activity
- Whitsel LP, Pate RR, Ablah E, et al. Editor’s Desk: Promoting Physical Activity in the Workplace. 2019;33(2):312-326. doi:10.1177/0890117118816750