Activate your Office

Help improve the lives of those around you by encouraging fitness at the workplace; the benefits include increased work performance,  better attitudes, and fewer sick days to name a few. Try these steps to encourage healthier more active lifestyles and get your employees up and moving:

· Host a Speaker: solicit local fitness professionals to come in and speak once a month. Host the lecture during lunch and if the budget allows, have a healthy lunch catered to the office that day.

· Walk/Run Club: being active early in the morning not only beats the heat, it also gives workers an energetic jumpstart the day. Coordinate small groups to walk or run for 30 minutes before work everyday.

· Alternative Transportation: encourage those who live relatively close to the office to walk, bike, or rollerblade to work. Start by posting a map in the break room and showing all areas within a 5-10 mile radius. http://maps.google.com/

· Sports League: offer the opportunity for employees to organize an inter-office sports league. Basketball and softball are great starters.

· Be Active Breaks: instead of lounging around the soda machine or taking a cigarette break, promote taking a 15 minute walk or stretch break to employees.

· Install an Exercise Room: if space is available in the office, buy new or second hand equipment to create an exercise room. To save money, check local gyms to see if they have used equipment available for sale.

Encouraging physical activity among employees is beneficial for everyone, even your bottom line! Start with some of the ideas listed above and get your office moving towards becoming the healthiest in your community.

Photo credit: LuluLemon on Flickr.com