Hybrid working leads people to use their commute as exercise

The widespread adoption of hybrid working has led to a boom in active commuting – where workers combine their commute with physical exercise – resulting in improved wellness, productivity, and job satisfaction, according to a new poll from IWG. The increased use of local flexible workspaces by hybrid workers has been central to this shift, says the firm, which provides local flexible workspaces. Almost two thirds (62 percent) of commutes to local workspaces are now mostly or entirely active, a 38 percent increase compared to commutes to city centre offices.

The study claims that walking (88 percent), cycling (34 percent), and running (28 percent) were the most common forms of active commuting, with workers travelling on average 324 km via walking, 366 km via running, and 418 km on bike to a local workspace annually.

The research also claims there are more novel forms of active transport, including travelling to work by scooter (7 percent), skateboards (6 percent), and rollerblades (4 percent), as workers cut long daily commutes by train or car and take advantage of workspaces closer to where they live.

The research also suggests that older workers have made the most significant increases to the time they spend exercising as part of their commutes. Those aged between 55 and 64 reported a 109 percent increase in active commuting when travelling to a local workspace instead of a central office.

Two thirds (67 percent) said they are more likely to incorporate physical activity into their commute when travelling to a local workspace instead of a city centre location, while more than three quarters (79 percent) have reported improvements to their physical health as a result. The most popular form of exercise for this “silver stroller” generation is walking, with workers aged 55-64 travelling an additional 259 km a year on foot by active commuting.

Beyond the obvious physical health benefits for all generations, active commuting to local workspaces has improved mental wellbeing, productivity and work/life balance, says the report. More than four in five (82 percent) of those that active commute said that incorporating exercise into their commute improved their mental health, with three in five (60 percent) reporting increased productivity at work. This is supported by additional research from International Workplace Group which found that three quarters (75 percent) of workers experienced a dramatic reduction in burnout symptoms, after transitioning to a hybrid model***.

The improvements to work/life balance has resulted in 85 percent of hybrid workers saying they are more satisfied in their jobs and 75 percent reporting higher levels of motivation.