Introducing our new Walk@Work program

Healthier employees and a healthier bottom line!

Research confirms exercise makes us happier and healthier. It helps prevent disease; is the only proven way to slow the aging process; keeps us young in mind, body and spirit; and is more effective than some medications in treating anxiety and depression. It can even add years to our lives.

Only 15% of Canadian adults however, are active enough to meet the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines which recommend at least 150 minutes of heart pumping activity each week. There are many factors contributing to our sedentary lives: desk jobs, time we spend commuting in our cars, and the perception that we have “no time,” at the top of the list.

Indeed, over sixteen million Canadians spend half their waking hours at work, the vast majority in sedentary jobs. Happily, a growing number of employers have realized that if they want a healthy and productive workforce, they need to invest in the wellness of those they hire. When they don’t, they can expect higher rates of stress, burnout and related absenteeism; difficulty recruiting and retaining talent; reputational issues; and of course, a negative impact where it often hurts most…the bottom line.

Management often puzzles over how best to create a happier, healthier workforce, and this is where we come in. Just as we believe in a simple approach to exercise (what makes more sense than walking outdoors?) we also believe in a smart and simple approach to happier, healthier employees. It’s why we work with businesses big and small to develop customized Walk@Work programs.

Our Walk@Work programs include:

1. An initial consultation between our workplace experts and your business to understand your interests and needs;
2. An engaging presentation for employees during which we discuss the health benefits of Nordic walking, provide would-be participants with an opportunity to try our Nordic walking poles, and during which we assess overall interest;
3. The expert development of a program/ programs for employees — i.e. a 30-minute lunchtime walking/Nordic walking program for beginners; a 30 minute higher-intensity walking program, etc.
4. Training of employees who will be spearheading and/or leading your Walk@Work program;
5. Assistance recruiting and training a local instructor who manages and leads your Walk@Work program;
6. Informative and inspiring health and wellness content for employee newsletters, websites, social media platforms, blogs, etc.
7. A discount on the purchase of our Nordic walking poles for your business.

When you invest in an employee walking program, over time you can expect:

• A decrease in employee absenteeism and turnover
• Happier, more positive and productive employees
• Lower medical costs and fewer employee injuries
• An enhanced business image
• A reduction in employee stress/mental health concerns
• A healthier bottom line

Contact us to find out how simple and cost effective it can be to invest in the health and happiness of your team through a Walk@Work program. You’re just a few steps away!