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On Your Feet Britain: A Call to Action for Healthier, More Active Lives

In our last blog post, we spoke about Stress Awareness Month and how the theme #LittleByLittle encourages us to make small, consistent and positive changes to our everyday lives in order to improve our wellbeing. Taking place on Thursday 25th April 2024, On Your Feet Britain is the perfect initiative to help organisations continue to tackle stress, boost wellbeing and raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity.

In today’s fast-paced world, promoting employee wellbeing goes beyond traditional health benefits. Encouraging movement in the workplace not only enhances physical health but also boosts productivity, creativity and overall job satisfaction. In an age where sedentary lifestyles have become the norm for many, initiatives like On Your Feet Britain serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying active and breaking the shackles of prolonged sitting. This annual event encourages individuals to embrace movement throughout their day, promoting better health and wellbeing for all. In this blog post, we explore the significance of On Your Feet Britain and offer practical tips to help organisations incorporate regular physical activity.

Understanding the Risks of Prolonged Sitting

The sedentary nature of many modern lifestyles has profound implications for our health. Research has linked excessive sitting with a myriad of health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and musculoskeletal problems. Even for those who engage in regular exercise, prolonged periods of sitting can counteract its benefits, highlighting the importance of incorporating movement into our everyday lives.

So how can HR Leaders and Managers cultivate a culture of movement and vitality within their offices?

1. Create an Active Environment: Design office layouts that facilitate movement, such as open floor plans that encourage walking and collaboration. Place printers, water stations and communal areas strategically to promote short walks throughout the day. Consider investing in adjustable standing desks or ergonomic furniture to provide employees with options for sitting or standing while working.
2. Incorporate Activity into Your Wellbeing Programmes: Kickstart wellness initiatives that promote physical movement, like step challenges, group fitness classes, or yoga sessions. Provide subsidies for fitness classes or wearable activity trackers to motivate employees to prioritize their health. If your team has access to the OptiMe App, consider trying some of our occupational exercises in small groups—a fun way to get everyone moving during breaks or energise mornings!
3. Encourage Active Breaks: Encourage employees to take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk or engage in brief exercises. Schedule walking meetings to stimulate creativity and promote physical activity. Provide designated spaces for employees to unwind and recharge, such as outdoor seating areas or walking paths.
4. Practise What You Preach: Demonstrate a commitment to workplace wellness by participating in movement-based activities and encouraging managerial teams to do the same. Incorporate movement into leadership meetings or team-building exercises to foster a culture of inclusivity and camaraderie. Recognise and celebrate employees who demonstrate a proactive approach to health and wellness, serving as role models for their peers.
5. Foster a Supportive Culture: Cultivate a supportive work environment where employees feel empowered to prioritise their health and wellbeing without fear of judgment. Solicit feedback from employees on their preferences and needs regarding workplace wellness initiatives, ensuring inclusivity and relevance. Provide resources and support for employees with disabilities or chronic health conditions to participate in movement-based activities tailored to their abilities.

On Your Feet Britain serves as a rallying cry for individuals everywhere to prioritise movement and combat the detrimental effects of prolonged sitting. By making small changes to our daily routines and embracing opportunities to stay active, we can enhance our health, productivity and overall wellbeing.

To find out more about our proven approach to boosting vitality in the workplace, get in touch, we’d be delighted to chat through your organisation’s needs and how we can help you hello@optimewellbeing.com.

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