Table 2 Key themes from the interviews with case study participants (n = 15)
Commonly Cited Worksite PAa Activities | Walking meetings, walking groups/clubs, gym membership discounts, one-time classes, wellness challenges, use of PA trackers |
|---|---|
Barriers to PA Initiatives | - Limited resources, particularly for small businesses - Many workplaces find it difficult to make PA a priority - Burdensome to implement PA break policies - HMB grant aims do not always coincide with the priorities and needs of participating businesses - Lack of support from HMB business leadership - Extreme weather poses a challenge for outdoor PA - Physical limitations for gym equipment, space to conduct workout classes, access to stairs and shower facilities - Workplace culture is not viewed as a place to promote PA (e.g., viewed PA as a personal issue rather than a company one) - Low rates of participation in PA programming among workers - Logistics of certain businesses prevent programming and activities—liability associated with PA, government organizations cannot offer certain participation incentives |
Facilitators of PA Initiatives | - Leadership support for PA programs is vital to success - Offering programs at a convenient time for employees helps to improve participation - Having a budget specifically for wellness activities - Need a wellness committee comprised of employees separate from HR responsible for planning and giving feedback on PA activities - Have tools in the office that could prompt PA among workers such as hula hoops and jump ropes - Offer a wide range of activities to attract a wider range of employees - Encourage employees to share PA success stories - Putting policies in writing improves uptake and participation - Some employees are more motivated to participate in PA programs when incentives are offered - Employees are motivated by different things, therefore communication advertising PA activities should address these motivators |