Step Count Challenge encourages the nation's workforce to be more active

Workplaces across Scotland are being encouraged to get involved in the Step Count Challenge, Paths for All's fun online walking challenge to break up the 9 to 5.

Walking is a healthy way to break up the working day

The Autumn Step Count Challenge, which begins on October 29, invites teams of five to get more active, motivate each other to walk more and record their steps and physical activity over a four-week period.

The aim of the challenge is to break-up long periods of sedentary behaviour during the work day, boost staff morale and encourage more people to walk more often as part of their daily routine.

Teams can battle it out to get to the top of the leaderboard during the challenge, with prizes, incentives and motivational tips being given along the way.

The Step Count Challenge runs twice a year - in the spring and in the autumn - and has benefits for employers too. Ian Findlay, Chief Officer at Paths for All said:

For a healthy lifestyle, walking should be part of everyday life - and this means incorporating it into our daily working routines. Walking to work, walking meetings, walking on your lunch break or even just taking the stairs instead of the lift can all make a huge difference.

A physically active workforce takes up to 27 per cent fewer sick days, so the Step Count Challenge really is an investment for companies – it’s in everyone’s benefit.

Individuals are set manageable goals, with weekly targets being gradually increased. Teams can increase the amount they walk at their own pace - but the element of competition makes it fun along the way.

Those who took part last year reported the challenge helped to build team morale in the workplace and had improved both physical and mental health.

At the end of the challenge, the Step Count Champion is revealed - someone who has made a big change to their own physical activity or who has motivated their team to become more active.

Participants are asked to nominate their Step Count Champion along the way. Groups can register for £30 each - and more than one team per workplace can get involved.

For more information about the Step Count Challenge, and on how to sign up, visit www.stepcount.org.uk.