That’s right, we’re looking at you, third Wednesday in May.
And we’re looking at YOU, Company Concerned About Employee Well-Being.
May 21st is National Employee Health and Fitness Day – and it’s dedicated to promoting physical activity in the workplace.
Why You Should Care
Let’s start with a few not-so-cool facts:
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36 percent of Americans say they get NO physical activity during the winter
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Lack of physical activity is linked to increased risk of heart disease, anxiety, depression and certain cancers
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And the whopper: Physical inactivity costs the U.S. ~$75 billion in medical costs each year
And what happens when employees get moving?
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Increased productivity, well-being, physical fitness and stamina
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Reduced absenteeism, sickness and stress
Sold? Then get on the May 21st bandwagon with some of our favorite ways to get employees on the move and in the groove – it’s not too late to plan an event! Remember – no matter what you do, reward participants with incentives like cash, gift cards, wellness program points, even paid time off.
5 Ways You Can Celebrate National Employee Health and Fitness Day
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Bike to Work Day. Challenge employees to trade four wheels for two on May 21st. Build excitement and motivation with T-shirts for participants, a casual dress code for the day and even a healthy, hearty breakfast – either at a nearby restaurant or in the office.
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9 – 5 Fitness Fest. Hire local fitness instructors to teach classes throughout the workday, giving employees a chance to break away from their desks. Aim for a mix of activities, like strength training, Zumba, yoga and good old-fashioned aerobics.
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Elevator Eliminator. Shut down the elevators for the day and get people bustling up those stairs! To add a competitive element, ask people to wear a Fitbit or other activity tracker and report their steps at the end of the day.
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CEO “Walk the Walk.” Invite employees to join your fearless leader for a lunchtime walk, either around the campus or on a nearby path or trail.
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Field Day. If you’ve got the space and/or facilities, organize a softball, volleyball, soccer or kickball tournament. Even better: let everyone off the clock for the afternoon so they can join the fun.