Move more, eat better:
essential steps to workplace wellbeing

Adopting healthy habits is not just a personal benefit—it’s a smart strategy for boosting wellbeing and productivity at work. Improving your health doesn’t require drastic changes: just consistent, mindful actions. By moving more and eating better, you’re investing in a healthier, happier, and more productive work life.

Why does it matter? | Move more | Eat better | Further Reading
Move More, Eat Better Campaign on 16 September 2025


Why This Campaign Matters

Today, 31% of adults and a staggering 80% of adolescents do not engage in enough physical activity. Physical inactivity is one of the leading risk factors for non-communicable diseases, increasing mortality risk by 20–30%. At the same time, employees who maintain a balanced diet are up to 25% more productive than those who consume high-fat, high-sugar diets. This campaign promotes practical ways to move more and eat better—right where we spend most of our day: at work.


Move more: your antidote to a sedentary lifestyle

Long hours of sitting at a desk can lead to numerous health issues: cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and weight gain. But the good news is—small changes can make a big difference.

The benefits of moving at work

  • Lower stress levels: physical activity releases endorphins—the feel-good hormones.

  • Better focus: improved blood flow means sharper thinking and concentration.
  • Pain prevention: regular movement and stretches help avoid back and neck pain.
  • More energy: movement recharges you, rather than draining you.

Simple ways to move more at work

  • Take active breaks: a 5-minute walk every hour helps relieve muscle tension and refresh the mind.

  • Walk or bike to work: or at least for nearby meetings or errands.
  • Stretch at your desk: neck rolls, shoulder stretches, and leg extensions can be done seated.
  • Check out these useful tips and videos to awaken your muscles on https://hse.cern/content/ergonomics.
  • Use the stairs: skip the elevator and energise your body instead.
  • Get reminders: use a free app like BigStretch to prompt movement throughout your day.

Eat Better: fuel your body, boost your brain

What you eat directly affects how you feel and perform at work. A healthy diet powers your mind, stabilises your energy, and helps prevent chronic disease. Poor eating habits can lead to fatigue, digestive issues, irritability, and more.

Why eat better at work?

  • Sharper thinking and memory: Nutrients like omega-3s and vitamins enhance brain function.

  • Stable energy levels: Balanced meals prevent sugar crashes and maintain stamina.
  • Reduced health risks: A nutrient-rich diet protects against heart disease, diabetes, and more.

Healthy eating tips for the Workday

  • Pack balanced meals: Include lean proteins, whole grains, veggies, and healthy fats like nuts or avocado.

  • Snack smart: Swap cookies and chips for fruit, plain yogurt, or raw nuts.
  • Hydrate often: Drink water or herbal teas instead of sugary drinks.
  • Eat regularly: Don't skip meals. A fiber- and protein-rich breakfast sets the tone for the day.
  • Focus on quality: Favor foods rich in omega-3, fiber, protein, and vitamins—like fatty fish, nuts, fresh produce, and unrefined oils (avoid palm oil).

Further reading:


Move more, Eat better campaign

15 Sept 2025 - Save the date for talks, demonstrations and activites !

View on INDICO

Poster for the campaign

Return to Page: Prevention and health promotion at CERN