5 ways physical wellbeing strategies are moving towards prevention
For too long, our society has relied on an "old world" approach to wellbeing: one that reacts to problems only after they arise.
Traditionally, we turned to our GP with acute symptoms, treating illnesses after they had already impacted our lives.
This reactive model often delays intervention until conditions become severe, leading to long-term health consequences, not to mention the increased burden on health systems, higher healthcare costs, and lost productivity.
The culture of waiting until issues become unmanageable before seeking help has placed immense strain on individuals, businesses, and public health services alike.
Changing the perspective on health
Today, we are shifting towards a "new world" of healthcare: one that prioritises prevention, early detection and long-term wellbeing.
This proactive approach acknowledges that good health isn’t just the absence of illness; it’s about creating an environment where people can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.
In the workplace, this means moving beyond isolated wellbeing initiatives and embedding movement and physical health into everyday policies.
Discounted gym membership programmes are one of the 10 most popular physical wellbeing initiatives provided by companies.
Also more organisations are recognising that keeping employees active and engaged isn’t just about perks: it’s a critical investment in long-term health, both personal and professional.
A workforce that prioritises movement and wellbeing isn’t just healthier, it’s also more focused, resilient, and productive.
By fostering a culture of prevention, businesses can help individuals take control of their health, reducing the risk of chronic conditions and enhancing overall quality of life.
Here’s how pioneering companies are shifting to a prevention model by integrating movement into their long-term wellbeing strategies:
1. Prioritising long-term health over short-term fixes
Rather than relying on reactive solutions like stress leave or burnout recovery programs, companies are shifting towards proactive initiatives that help employees stay healthy in the first place.
This includes access to fitness memberships, regular health assessments, and digital wellbeing tools that promote ongoing movement and prevent issues before they escalate.
A key part of this shift is raising awareness of early warning signs: helping employees recognise when stress, fatigue, or inactivity are starting to take a toll.
Forward-thinking companies provide education on physical and mental wellbeing, ensuring that teams understand how small, consistent habits, such as exercising for just 20 minutes a day, can prevent bigger health problems down the line.
2. Incentivising preventative wellbeing
Recognising the importance of preventative health, more organisations are offering financial incentives to encourage proactive wellbeing steps.
From gym membership subsidies and cycling-to-work schemes to wearable fitness trackers, companies are helping employees incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.
These incentives not only promote fitness but also gamify the process, making movement more enjoyable.
By offering tangible rewards, businesses create a culture where wellbeing is prioritised and supported, fostering healthier, more motivated teams.
Encouraging preventative health measures helps employees stay fit, reduce stress, and prevent long-term health issues before they arise.
3. Making physical wellbeing more accessible
Employees who engage in regular physical activity experience up to a 27% increase in cognitive performance, boosting creativity and innovation in the workplace.
Thus, the focus is shifting from traditional gym access to a broader range of movement options that suit all employees' needs and preferences.
From yoga and pilates to workplace stretching sessions and virtual fitness classes, businesses are offering a variety of ways for employees to stay active.
The key is flexibility - ensuring that every employee can find a form of movement that works for them, whether at home, in the office, or on the go.
By providing diverse options, companies are ensuring that physical activity becomes an integrated part of employees' routines, regardless of their fitness level or personal preferences.
4. Strengthening the connection between physical and mental health
Physical wellbeing is increasingly recognised as a vital component of mental health strategy.
Regular movement offers far more than physical fitness: it has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, enhancing mental clarity and focus.
Adults who engage in daily physical activity experience a 20% to 30% lower risk of depression.
As a result, more businesses are integrating physical activity into their mental wellbeing initiatives.
By incorporating movement into the workday, companies support both physical and mental health, fostering a more balanced, resilient, and productive workforce.
This holistic approach nurtures both mind and body, contributing to a healthier, more engaged environment for everyone.
5. Creating a culture of movement
For a wellbeing programme to be effective, it must offer employees the means, motive, and opportunity to change their behaviour.
Creating a culture of movement goes beyond implementing policies - it's about embedding movement into daily work life.
Companies are encouraging leadership to model active behaviours, with executives and managers setting the tone by prioritising physical activity.
Movement-friendly office designs, such as standing desks, walking areas, and spaces for stretching, are becoming the norm.
More importantly, organisations are fostering an environment where taking breaks to move is encouraged and celebrated, not frowned upon.
This shift towards a movement-oriented culture is a necessary evolution in workplace wellbeing.
By making movement a core part of company culture, businesses invest in a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce, equipped to thrive in the long run.
The move towards preventative wellbeing strategies marks a profound shift in how companies approach employee health.
By prioritising long-term health, offering accessible movement options, incentivising healthy habits, and fostering a supportive culture, organisations are improving employee wellbeing while boosting focus, engagement, and productivity.
Investing in prevention today ensures a more resilient and thriving workforce tomorrow.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Epassi
Creating a fitter, happier and more productive workforce now, and for future generations.
