Research shows that movement can have a hugely positive impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. But the truth is that most desk-based workers don’t move nearly enough during the working day. HR Directors cite lack of time, facilities and employee motivation as the biggest barriers to employees moving more often.
So, we thought, what if we created a short and accessible movement-based programme that people might actually enjoy doing. Would it make an impact on employee’s mental wellbeing?
We teamed up with Professor Brendon Stubbs from Kings College London, and in early 2020 we conducted a feasibility study with our own employees to test a first version of ASICS Movement for Mind. Although the results were very encouraging, we had to put a broader trial on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In the months that followed, we saw an even bigger need to encourage employees to move for body and for mind. So, in late 2020 we decided to rethink ASICS Movement for Mind and adapt it from a group-based programme to an audio-based programme.
The principles of ASICS Movement for Mind have remained the same.
- It has movement at its core – running or walking.
- It incorporates other elements that are scientifically proven to improve mental wellbeing.
- It’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone, no matter what your fitness level.
ASICS Movement for Mind is still a research project that we will put to the test in May 2021. It lasts eights weeks, and there are two sessions a week that people will listen to while on the move.
Each week of the programme has a different theme, designed to keep things interesting and introduce different techniques to improve mental health.
We are working with a group of expert to host the sessions, including:
- David Lenneman. Global Team Captain of our ASICS FrontRunner community.
- Gray Caws. Movement and Breath Coach.
- Roos Tij. Coach and Mindful Movement Expert.
- Dominique Antiglio. Sophrology Expert, author, and pioneer of Sophrology in the UK.
- Dr Claire Renfrew. Chartered Psychologist specialising in music psychology, currently working in the music industry.
- Ian Banyard. Wellbeing author and Nature Connection Guide.
- Dr Danny Penman. Author and Meditation and Mindfulness Expert.
We look forward to finally putting ASICS Movement for Mind to the test in May and sharing the results later this year.
