Walking and Talking Meetings

Walking and talking are the new script for 'power meetings.' Where once big decisions with the head honchos were made seated in a boardroom, executives at all levels are making their meetings matter these days... by squeezing in a little exercise alongside their corporate agenda.

Standing desks have been talked about for a while now as a way to curb hours of sedentary sitting in offices, but even better than standing, is walking.

A recent study published in the journal Prevent Chronic Disease showed that the more employees engaged in moderate physical activity while at work, the less likely they were to miss days due to health reasons.

Welcome to the 'walking meeting.' Walking meetings are typically organized with two or three people over a set period of time, maybe 15-30 minutes, and via a designated walking route. Routes can meander through the office floor or hallways, parking lots, or even a nearby park. Topics can range from administrative issues to brainstorming.

Walking no doubt burns calories and gets the blood flowing, which is great for the body, but it can get ideas flowing too. People are said to be more spontaneous and creative in their thinking while being active, as well as more accepting of new ideas.

Want to get in on the walking action, but don't really have the need to meet with anyone else in person? The concept still works. Put your headset on and take some laps while participating in a conference call or training session.

Many Americans still get less than the recommended 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise, despite the ever-mounting evidence that it can vastly improve your quality of lie. As little as fifteen minutes of brisk walking daily can help fend off obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, and a number of other serious medical conditions.

(Adapted from The Wall Street Journal)

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