Active Dorset are joining the #ActiveSoles movement, calling for organisations across our county to make wearing comfortable shoes in the workplace the norm. This movement supports people to be more active during the day.

Active Soles is a movement to change the way we think about workwear. Active workplaces lead to happier, healthier people which in turn leads to greater creativity, better problem solving and improved productivity. We've joined the Active Soles movement to make wearing comfortable shoes in the workplace the norm, not the exception.

How does Active Soles work?

It's simple:

– It's about making a small change to make a big difference

– It's about encouraging you to Move More in your working day

– It's about giving you permission to wear comfortable shoes that you can move in (this could be your trainers, flat shoes – whatever you're comfortable in that helps you to move more)

– It's about finding your way to move, every day – walk, wheel, push we can all find a way

– It's about telling people about how great you feel by moving and all the benefits you experience

– It's about inviting others to join in

Where did it start?

The Active Soles movement started in Greater Manchester, England, when two leaders within the Council had a conversation about why they felt the need to wear uncomfortable shoes to work in order to feel professional. They realised that this was a problem that many people faced, and they decided to do something about it.

How can you get involved?

Think about wearing comfortable shoes allows you to:

– Have more walking / moving meetings.

– It's an inclusive movement, it's about movement in a way that's right for you – not completing a marathon

– Get outside on your lunch breaks, walk, wheel, push – feel inspired with your active soles

– Build some movement into your long group meetings / board meetings, it could be as simple as moving around the room you are in or even better take a movement break and get outside

We want senior leaders to show their support for the campaign and their workforce by setting an example by wearing their active soles, celebrating the benefits of adding movement into their working day, and encouraging others to join in.

Show your support by sharing photos of you, your colleagues and teams getting involved. Tag us on social media and use #ActiveSoles

For more information, as well as other ideas, resources and training to build an active working culture, contact Katie Davies on kdavies@activedorset.org

Image courtesy: https://makeyourmove.org.uk/activesoles/