Make use of your lunchtime with our healthy half hour

This National Fitness Day (26th September), Fitness First is delighted to pioneer a new lunchtime fitness concept, the Healthy Half Hour, encouraging companies across the UK to give their staff half an hour extra paid lunch break if their employees pledge to do something active.

CEO of Fitness First Martin Long has pioneered the new scheme, which launches this week, encouraging his staff at the retailer & gym operator’s HQ and at branches across the country to get active during their lunch break to promote a healthy workplace and work / life balance. Activities that they can do include everything from attending a class at the gym, like a Metafit class, to going for a long walk and more besides.

Supporting him on this challenge are numerous companies pledging to support their staff with an active lunchtime and to pay them for the extra thirty minutes. England Athletics has also pledged that its staff will join the campaign. 

Martin Long, CEO of Fitness First commented:

“Encouraging employees to lead an active lifestyle and have a work-life balance is paramount. Research has proved a significant increase in productivity when employees exercise within their lunch break.  This small change in habit offers an afternoon reset moment, ensuring energy carries through the entire working day. Our people are at the heart of our business and ensuring they have the energy to provide a great service to our customers is important. This heightened productivity and positivity offers immeasurable business and personal benefits and is something I am keen for all CEOs to implement, without a doubt they will see marked rewards.”

CEO of England Athletics Chris Jones commented:

“Taking the time to do something fit and healthy at lunchtime is important for everyone- from a business perspective and also for the individual employee. Getting away from a desk promotes a healthy heart and a healthy mind, and we’ve seen the changes in positive mind set and decision making as part of it. Having a healthy work life balance is something we promote at England Athletics and we’re pleased to get behind Fitness First’s Healthy Half Hour campaign.”

Dr Jill Owen, Sports Psychologist said:

“Studies show exercise is one of the best ways to maintain a focussed mind.  The benefits to leaving your desk to do something active at lunch time are endless, and will only add value for employers in the long run.”

For some further inspiration, download the Fitness First CORE app (download via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) for the latest 10 Minute Workouts, in club challenges and so much more! It's a fantastic way to get active and try something new to mix up your routine.

If you’re an employer, register for our Healthy Half Hour scheme here.