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Active workplaces

Discover the benefits of being an active workplace for both businesses and employees, as well as actions to encourage and increase workplace activity.

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What employers can do

Physical activity doesn’t always mean ‘exercise’ – introducing any movement into the day is a step towards a healthier and active workforce.

As an employer, there are several ways you can boost workplace activity. Simple changes, like encouraging people to take the stairs or providing standing desks, can make a big difference.

Regular movement not only boosts energy and focus but also reduces the risk of health issues like back pain and stress.

If managers can join in with activities and be visible role models, employees are more likely to get involved too.

Promote green travel options
  • Provide resources and promote green travel options, including active commuting. Even if staff travel by train or bus, they are likely to also walk more from the station than they would from their car.
  • Implement a bike purchase salary sacrifice scheme which will also be a positive employment benefit for you staff
Encourage healthy workplace habits
  • Start a workplace walking group. May is  National Walking Month – encourage employees to take part and promote the event in your workplace, but no need to wait until May, any time is a good time to start
  • Promote small, active habits like employees taking the stairs or parking further away from their base, if they must use their cars. You could try the British Heart Foundation stair climb challenge in your workplace
  • Organise lunchtime taster sessions for activities such as yoga or Pilates
  • Advertise local sports groups, especially non-profits and charities. This is also a great way to help protect and improve your employee’s mental wellbeing.
Engage your teams
  • Talk to employees to understand their interests and involve them in the planning and organising events and activities
Use support from other services 

In Wales there are a range of organisations that can assist you and your employees to create a more active workplace:

  •  Sustrans  support employers across Wales to empower their staff to leave the car at home and travel to work by public transport, bike, foot or car share
  • British Heart Foundation provides advice, ideas, tips and resources to help you promote physical activity at work
  • Chartered Society of Physiotherapy provides free online resources and information about promoting physical activity at work
  • Ramblers Cymru website provides information on local walks or walking groups in your area
Stay informed

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Page last reviewed: 2nd April 2025

A commuter in a high visibility jacket and helmet riding a bike on a road.