Workplaces are continually evolving with innovative wellness initiatives like Corporate Cup events, lunchtime yoga sessions, and ‘walk and talk’ meetings designed to boost employee physical activity. A new study by researchers from the University of South Australia reveals that just 15 minutes of targeted activity, enhanced by gamification, can significantly advance an individual’s health journey. This research assessed the impact of a gamified wellness program—the 15 Minute Challenge—on 11,575 employees across 73 companies in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, finding that 95% of participants met or surpassed the recommended exercise guidelines.
Over six weeks, the challenge led to an average increase of 12 minutes in daily physical activity, or 85 minutes weekly, with participants typically engaging in 45 minutes of exercise daily. Alongside increased activity levels, improvements were noted in fitness (14%), energy (12%), overall health (8%), sleep quality (8%), and mood (7.1%). These results are significant considering the World Health Organization’s guidelines, which recommend that adults aged 18-64 engage in 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75–150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity weekly.
Dr Ben Singh, lead researcher from UniSA, emphasized the efficacy of the 15 Minute Challenge in enhancing workplace health and wellness. He pointed out the extensive benefits of regular physical activity, which not only helps in managing and preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and cancer but also reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. The fact that about half of Australian adults do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity underlines the necessity of workplace wellness programs, with the 15 Minute Challenge standing out as a promising solution.
The study demonstrated that a minimal daily commitment to physical activity can lead to significant health improvements. The 15 Minute Challenge, with its unique approach, encourages participants to exceed the minimal goals set by the challenge. This approach helps to build regular exercise habits, particularly among those who are predominantly sedentary, making the 15-minute goal a catalyst for more substantial physical activity. Many participants found themselves not just meeting but exceeding the national health recommendations, proving the effectiveness of the challenge.
Professor Carol Maher, co-researcher at UniSA, attributed part of the program’s success to its gamification elements and the social dynamics encouraged through the app. The app fostered team collaboration and accountability through friendly competition, which is crucial in motivating participants to stay committed and connected. Maher emphasized that addressing physical inactivity is a collective responsibility and that employers who initiate effective, enjoyable, and cost-effective programs like the 15 Minute Challenge can reap dual benefits.
Not only does such an initiative enhance the health and well-being of employees, but it also boosts their productivity, satisfaction, and stress levels while reducing the likelihood of sickness. This makes sustainable and scalable wellness programs essential elements of any organization’s health and wellness strategy, positioning the 15 Minute Challenge as a model for positive change in workplace environments.
More information: Ben Singh et al, Evaluation of the “15 Minute Challenge”: A Workplace Health and Wellbeing Program, Healthcare. DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131255
Journal information: Healthcare Provided by University of South Australia
