Winter Walking Benefits

If you’re looking to increase productivity and decrease healthcare costs for your business, start by putting your best foot forward: A walking program can help employees achieve a healthy BMI, and maintain a more positive attitude overall.

Which also translates to a healthier bottom line: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, medical expenditures for obese workers (depending on gender and the severity of the problem) are between 29% and 117% greater than expenditures for workers with normal weight.

To help employees get motivated during the chilly season, remind them of the benefits to winter walking:

Burn (even more) calories: Walking in the cold doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to burn more calories, but walking in the snow means you will lift your legs higher and expend more energy according to the Arthritis Foundation. Encourage a slow, steady pace to help employees avoid injuries but still get results: Researchers at the University of Colorado found that walking at a leisure pace was enough to help previously sedentary people slim down. Note: Always encourage wearing the proper attire when walking in snow and colder weather (boots, double socks, triple layers, covering head and hands, etc). Post a chart, like this one from Weight Watchers, to show how many calories are burned based on weight and speed.

Mood boost: According to a study by the University of Washington, people who took a brisk outdoor walk for 20 minutes a day showed better moods, higher self-esteem, and an improved sense of well-being. Translation: A happier work environment.

Vitamin surge. Just 15 minutes outdoors will give employees their vitamin D fix for the day. Why is this important? Most people in the U.S. are vitamin D deficient, and this vitamin is linked to healthy bones, boosts mood, and helps ward off osteoporosis, LDL (or bad) cholesterol, and heart disease.

Natural inspiration. Experts say a brisk walk can wake up the senses and help inspire employees to be more creative. Encourage workers to take small breaks, or spend a portion of their lunch break walking. Map out safe routes for your employees around work, and make sure any icy or snow dangers are taken care of by salt and sand.