Start a Walking Group at Work

Taking a short brisk walk with co-workers during your break time is a great way to be active at work. It is inexpensive and can boost your energy levels and help you achieve better health.

How to Get Started:

• Make it a priority! Find other co-workers to help you create a walking group. Designate someone to be the leader.
• If you start off with only a couple of co-workers; remember that you already have a small group. Interest may build and more co-workers may join.
• With those interested, hold a short meeting to decide on the frequency of walks and where to meet each time.
• Not all co-workers interested will be able to walk at the same pace or are at the same level of physical activity; therefore, consider offering different levels of walking groups.
• If someone joins the group who has not been physically active recently, suggest they check with their health care provider before taking part in the walking group.
• Choose regular walk times that will fit most people's schedules.
• Plan your walking route. Use a map to figure out distances. Decide with the group if the route will change regularly or be the same.
• Advertise! Consider workplace bulletin boards, office newsletters, flyers/posters, emails, and word of mouth to promote your walking group.

Keep it fun to maintain interest with contests, quizzes, and prizes. Also consider participating in some fund-raising walks as a group.

Learn about safe stretching. Talk to your health care provider or recreation specialist about proper techniques for stretches.