In February, our team embarked on a collective journey towards better well-being by joining our steps challenge. We asked staff to track their daily steps and to track our progress. As we strode through the month, staff covered a staggering 7.5 million steps – the equivalent of Rugby to Egypt.

Read on to explore why we ran this challenge, how it fits our social impact strategy and the benefits it brought to our team.

Promoting employee well-being

At the heart of our staff step challenge lies a commitment to how Datagraphic prioritises the health and well-being of our people. We wanted to advocate for healthier habits and lifestyles among our team members and encourage more physical activity. Throughout the month, we reminded staff to take a break from their desks, enjoy the outdoors, and be more aware of their daily activities.

Walking is a simple and accessible form of exercise and an effective way to reduce stress and boost mood. Regular physical activity, such as walking, can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. In fact, by walking more, our team members reported better levels of physical fitness and overall happiness.

 “My average steps have tripled, and I feel loads better for it.”

By recognising the relationship between physical and mental well-being, our challenge provided a platform for our employees to prioritise their mental health.

“It has spurred me on to go outside on work days and get the break I need from my laptop.” 

Fostering social impact

Beyond the personal health benefits, our initiative aligns with our broader social impact strategy. We want to promote active living and healthier communities. 

Everyone set their own personal goal, but some were happy to share their experiences openly. In doing so, we were able to raise awareness amongst a wider audience of the benefits of moving more throughout the day.

The step challenge was not merely about reaching a numerical target or achieving personal fitness goals. The goal was to leverage our combined strength and influence to effect positive change. As participants in the UN Global Compact, it therefore directly contributes to SDG 3; ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’.

The benefits of a staff step challenge

Throughout February:

• Our total count was 7.5 million steps, which is the equivalent of Rugby to Egypt, as the crow flies.
• Average daily steps increased by 45%.
• Staff reported physical and mental benefits from being more active.
• Teams took more regular screen breaks and spent them moving.
• We spotted more nature in our local areas, including newts, owls, ducks and even a peacock.
• Adding in a daily walk provided more opportunities to walk with friends, our children and four-legged friends.

And although it resulted in healthy competition between our staff members, our motivations remain in wanting to create a brighter, healthier future for all.

Read more about how Datagraphic supports its people.