Health Handouts : Workplace Physical Activity Programs: Keys to Success

To make a difference in the lives of your fellow staff members, you first need to understand that getting active is not only a matter of choice. Some things are within our individual control, but others are shaped by the individuals and circumstances in which we live and work.

It’s Easier to Be Active When…

• We know what to do and have the confidence, skills and opportunity to do it.
• It’s fun. “Working out” at the health club does not appeal to everyone. Activities need to reflect what people enjoy.
• Our friends, family or co-employees are active with us (or at least support us).
• We feel safe, thanks to well-lit streets or stairways.
• Sidewalks, walking/biking trails, parks and gyms are nearby.
• We have money to pay for equipment, instruction or memberships.
• We can walk, bike or take public transit to work.
• Active choices such as taking the stairs, having stretch breaks during meetings and going outside during lunch are “normal” in the workplace.
• Managers support and recognize employee efforts. Better yet, they take part.
• We can juggle our work hours to fit in physical exercise.

Consider how you might establish some of these conditions in your workplace. By taking these steps, you’ll make it more likely that staff members both want and are able to be active during working hours.

Workplace physical exercise pushes that focus only on individuals have limited success. Research shows that reaching people in various ways gives the strong chance of long-term success.

A plan directed at multiple echelons is also called an “ecological approach.”