Movement Is Medicine: How Companies Can Boost Mental Health Through Physical Activity
When it comes to workplace wellbeing, the solutions companies reach for often involve apps, workshops, or counselling programs. But according to Ben Schwencke, Chief Psychologist at Test Partnership, the most effective approach is also the simplest: getting employees moving.
“By far, the best way to support employees’ wellbeing is to encourage physical activity,” Schwencke explains. “We know from decades of research that movement is medicine, and the efficacy of exercise at combating poor mental health is comparable to targeted therapeutic interventions—while also providing physical health benefits.”
Schwencke highlights the deep link between mind and body, noting that improvements in one often create a positive feedback loop that benefits the other.
From Perks to Culture Shift
While tools like subsidised gym memberships, cycle schemes, and wearable trackers are useful, Schwencke emphasizes that real change requires a cultural shift—especially in workplaces that unintentionally reward sedentary behaviour.
He suggests practical, everyday strategies companies can adopt:
- Hosting walking meetings instead of traditional sit-downs.
- Encouraging staff to take short walks during lunch rather than eating at their desks.
- Providing facilities such as showers and bike storage to support active commuting.
“These things require top-down support,” Schwencke stresses. “But they yield far greater benefits than any formal intervention that doesn’t receive buy-in.”
High Impact, High ROI
For Schwencke, the case is clear: movement delivers the best return on investment of any wellbeing intervention. “Getting people moving solves a significant number of modern-day health problems, and offers the best bang for your buck of any possible wellbeing-related intervention.”
About Ben Schwencke
Ben Schwencke is the Chief Psychologist at Test Partnership, where he leads research and development to ensure assessments remain accurate, valid, and fair. He holds an MSc in Occupational Psychology and is a BPS registered test user of ability and personality testing (About Us).
