We’ve all heard about them before, but do we really understand the benefits of walking meetings? Studies show that walking dramatically boosts creativity and idea generation compared to sitting.
A groundbreaking 2014 study published in the journal “Psychological Science” explored the profound impact of walking on creative thinking. The study, aptly titled “Give Your Ideas Some Legs: The Positive Effect of Walking on Creative Thinking,” was conducted by Stanford researchers. It revealed a remarkable finding that has since been a driving force behind the adoption of walking meetings.
The researchers set up creative thinking tests in various settings, including walking on a treadmill, walking outdoors, sitting indoors, and sitting outdoors.
The results were nothing short of astonishing: walking, whether indoors or outdoors, led to a staggering 60% improvement in creative output compared to sitting. This eye-opening study shed light on the incredible potential that lies in incorporating movement into our work routines.
Why does this happen?
Walking meetings have a few key benefits:
- Improves productivity and helps reduce meeting fatigue
- Improves cognition as movement gets the blood flowing, energizing and activating your brain
- Being outside in nature walking improves mood and reduces stress
- Walking side-by-side removes the perceived hierarchies of a conference table
- Movement stimulates new connections and ideas
Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of walking meetings…
Productivity and Meeting Efficiency
One of the most compelling arguments in favor of walking meetings lies in their impact on productivity and meeting efficiency. Traditional meetings often fall victim to “meeting fatigue” and meandering discussions that lead to wasted time and energy. Walking meetings, on the other The physical movement, coupled with the change of environment, encourages participants to get to the heart of the matter faster.
It’s not just about efficiency, though. The fresh air, the rhythm of movement, and the absence of a conference room hierarchy create an atmosphere conducive to open and innovative thinking.
Walking meetings empower you to cover ground—both literally and figuratively—more effectively.
Influence of Nature on Creativity
While some of the benefits of walking meetings seem obvious, what happens when you take those steps outdoors? The influence of nature on creativity is a fascinating aspect of this practice. This phenomenon, often referred to as “biophilia,” recognizes our intrinsic connection to the natural world and its profound impact on our well-being and creative thinking.
Numerous studies have shown that exposure to nature, even in urban environments, can stimulate creativity and problem-solving. When you take your meetings outside, you’re not only benefitting from the physical activity but also immersing yourself in an environment that can help produce fresh ideas and a more expansive perspective. It’s a potent combination that luminaries like Steve Jobs and Charles Dickens understood well.
Physical Activity and Brain Function
It’s not just creativity that benefits from physical activity; cognitive function, in general, receives a significant boost. Research from the University of British Columbia underscores the powerful link between physical activity and enhanced brain function. The study found that even short bursts of exercise, such as the kind you can achieve during a walking meeting, can lead to improved cognitive abilities.
The key takeaway here is that walking meetings aren’t just a change of scenery; they are an active investment in your cognitive ability. By simply taking a step away from your desk and into motion, you’re not just refreshing your body but also giving your brain the oxygen and stimulation it craves for optimal performance.
Reducing Sedentary Behavior
Unfortunately, sedentary behavior has become an unwelcome companion for many of us. Hours spent hunched over desks, glued to computer screens, and engaged in marathon meetings can take a toll on both our physical health and mental acuity.
According to data from the American Heart Association and the World Health Organization, the detrimental effects of prolonged sitting are well-documented. It’s associated with an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, and even mental health issues. However, by incorporating walking meetings into your work routine, you’re actively combatting this sedentary lifestyle.
These brief moments of physical activity throughout the day not only counteract the harm caused by extended periods of sitting but also provide a dynamic alternative to traditional meetings. You’re not just discussing ideas; you’re actively engaged in a healthier, more invigorating way of working.
So how can you put this into practice?
Here are some tips:
- Schedule walking 1-on-1s to brainstorm ideas with colleagues
- Get out of the office for external meetings when possible
- If working at home, take scheduled calls during a walk using a Bluetooth headset
- Go for a quick 5-minute walk to refresh your mind if stuck on a problem
- Try a new walking route outside to stimulate new thinking
- After lunch, take a brisk walk. This has been proven to decrease blood sugar levels after eating, which can help fend off tireless during the afternoon, and in turn increase productivity
The benefits of walking meetings are clear. Build walking into your schedule to boost creativity, improve mood, improve fitness, and recharge. Your best product ideas may be just a walk away!
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