Move more, eat better:
essential steps to workplace wellbeing

Adopting healthy habits not only benefits your personal well-being, but it's also an effective way to boost your performance at work. Improving your health doesn't require radical changes; it just requires regular, conscious action. By moving more and eating better, you're investing in a more balanced, fulfilling, and efficient professional 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.

References:

Physical activity

Decent food at work: Raising workers' productivity and well-being | International Labour Organization


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.

See: Sedentary works - WEB

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.

A sticker shown on CERN lifts, reminding you to take the stairs if you can

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

  • Focus on balanced meals: with lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats (like nuts or avocado). Bring home-cooked meals; this allows you to better control your nutritional intake.

  • 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

16 September 2025 - Save the date for talks, demonstrations and activities !

Take part to acquire health and fitness tips and advice at stands and  live demos from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Main Building, R1 and outside (if the weather is good - otherwise activities will take place in the Mezzanine).

The conference will take place from 12.30 to 2 p.m. in the Main Auditorium, find out more on INDICO.

MMEB

Return to Page: Prevention and health promotion at CERN