To make a difference in the lives of your fellow employees, you first need to understand that getting active is not simply 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 is 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 fitness club does not appeal to everybody. Activities need to reflect what people enjoy.
• Our friends, family or colleagues are active with us (or at least support us).
• We feel safe, thanks to well-lit streets or stairwells.
• Sidewalks, walking/bicycling trails, parks and gyms are nearby.
• We have money to pay for equipment, instruction or memberships.
• We can walk, bicycle or take public transit to work.
• Active options like taking the stairs, having stretch breaks at meetings and going outside during lunchtime are “normal” in the workplace.
• Managers support and recognize employee efforts. Better yet, they participate.
• We can juggle our work hours to fit in physical activity.
Think about how you might develop 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 the workday.
Workplace exercise programs that focus only on individuals have limited success. Research studies show that reaching individuals in various ways gives the best chance of long-term success.
A strategy directed at multiple levels is also called an “ecological approach.”
