“Take a Flight for Fitness” Using Stairs to Increase Physical Activity

Benefits of stair use? Stair use complements an existing physical activity routine Stair use can initiate a physical activity regimen Stair use increases heart rate

Employee Benefits Can augment a weight loss program Can improve physical fitness “Physically fit employees” can make “happier employees”

Employer Benefits Physical activity programs can lower employee absenteeism Physical activity programs can help decrease insurance cost “Physically fit employees” typically are more “productive employees”

Stairwell Use: Empirical Data CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Physical improvements such as: motivational signs, painting, carpet cleaning increased stair use. The project showed a 9% increase in stair use during a 3 ½ year span. Source:

Stairwell Use: Empirical data con’t British Medical Journal, 1995 Point of Decision prompts (signs that encourage employees to take the stairs instead of taking the elevators) were placed where stairs and elevators were adjacent. Over a period of 16 weeks, there was an increase of 15% - 17%. Source:

Stairwell Effectiveness Increased stair use has been shown to benefit people of all ages. Place where heavy traffic occurs (e.g., multiple floor office buildings, public places where stairs are located) Places where stairs are adjacent to elevators, and “Point of Decision” prompts can be placed.

Implementation Administrative approval Purchase and/ or gather materials Safety issues (i.e., choose stairwells that are safe) Stairwell beautification

Implementation Post “motivational flyers”, “point of decision prompts”, and “theme boards”. Schedule of topics for theme boards, change of “motivational flyers”, and “point of decision prompts”. Evaluation of program.

Implementation Cost: less than $75. Most of the materials are reusable. A “Wellness Champion” will enhance chances for success.

Outcomes The desired goal is to increase physical activity Variety is essential (e.g., changing the motivational signs, theme boards etc.) Evaluating the program provides valuable feedback

Outcomes Increase stair use Increased physical activity Increase awareness regarding stair use

Lessons to Build Upon Identify the “contemplative” employees prior to implementation. Maintain sustainability.

Next Steps Review “Implementation Checklist” sheet Review “Implementation Tips” sheet. Get Started!