New year resolution: A fitter workforce?

The benefits of exercise on our physical and mental health are well known. The healthier and fitter we are the better we work on our business. A healthier, fitter workforce are also much more likely to be productive and happier. Yet, many of us struggle to find the time or energy to do enough exercise.


The Department of Health and Social Care and the NHS revealed that 8.7 million NHS Couch to 5K runs were completed in 2024, with a total of 790,000 people downloading the NHS fitness app.


The app is designed to help beginners gradually build up to running 5 kilometres. Andrew Gwynne, Public Health Minister, said: “The NHS Couch to 5k app is a great way to get fitter and build sustainable running habits.”
Regular running is a proven way to reduce the risk of long-term illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. It also helps in maintaining a healthier weight and improving your mood.


Users of the app get a guided commentary from a celebrity coach that they can choose and can track their progress by doing 3 runs a week. Users also receive celebration videos and progress summaries as they complete each running challenge. There is also guidance and support for those who have setbacks.


The app also now features ‘graduation’ content to help motivate people to make running a habit.


Of course, running is not the only form of exercise. Some may prefer cycling, swimming, walking, going to the gym, swimming, or playing sports.


However, regardless of the type of exercise, being able to exercise with someone else or making a commitment to someone else provides extra motivation to persist with an exercise habit. The workplace can be a good source of ‘buddies’ to give that motivation.


In view of the benefits available, could promoting the NHS Couch to 5K app or an exercise club not only help improve your and your staff’s health and well being but also benefit your business?


See: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/record-numbers-complete-nhs-couch-to-5k-app