Health Promotion Strategies

To make a difference in the lives of your fellow staff members, you first need to understand that getting active is not simply a matter of option. Some things are within our individual control, but others are shaped by the people  and circumstances in which we live and work.

It’s 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 fitness clubs are nearby.

• We’ve money to pay for equipment, instruction or memberships.

• We can walk, bike or take public transit to work.

• Active choices such as taking the stairs, having stretch breaks at meetings and going outside during lunchtime are “normal” in the workplace.

• Managers support and recognize worker efforts. Better yet, they participate.

• We can juggle our work hours to fit in exercise.

Think about how you could create some of these conditions in your workplace. By taking these steps, you’ll make it more likely that employees both want and are able to be active during the workday.

Workplace physical activity programs that focus only on person have limited success. Research shows 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.”