Sitting for hours has become one of the biggest health risks in the modern workplace. Active meetings are one solution. Not only do they get people moving, but research also suggests they can spark creativity and improve productivity.
In this article, we’ll explain what an active meeting is, explore its benefits, and share practical tips for organizing one successfully.
What Is an Active Meeting?
An active meeting is one in which participants engage in light physical activity.
Instead of sitting throughout, participants walk, stand, or perform simple exercises during discussions.
The goal is to reduce sedentary behavior, make interactions more lively, and get more done in a short amount of time.
Benefits of Active Meetings
Improved Focus and Participant Engagement
Active meetings directly impact participants' focus. Keeping the body engaged during a meeting makes the brain more alert and attentive, helping employees retain information better and encouraging active participation.
Being active also reduces mental fatigue, which often occurs during long, seated meetings.
Time Saving and Increased Efficiency
Traditional meetings can be long, boring, and sometimes unproductive. Active meetings change that by keeping people focused.
Standing, walking, or doing light exercises during discussions helps participants stay alert, encourages more lively exchanges, and often makes meetings shorter, sharper, and more productive.
Enhanced Collaboration and Creativity
Another benefit of active meetings is that they boost creativity and team interaction. Moving around encourages informal, open conversations. This relaxed setting sparks new ideas and helps team members collaborate more naturally.
Reduced Sedentary Behavior
Active meetings get participants moving rather than having them sit for long periods. Encouraging movement improves posture, eases physical tension, and supports overall health.
8 Tips for Organizing an Active Meeting
Define the Type of Active Meeting
Decide in advance what kind of active meeting it will be. Specify the activity, whether it’s a walk, a standing discussion, or light stretches. Plan the route or space, and outline any exercises or movements so participants know what to expect.
Choose the Meeting Route or Space
Select an environment that supports movement. This could be a spacious, well-lit indoor area or an outdoor route. Ensure the space is safe, uncluttered, and accessible to all participants.
Limit the Number of People
Keep active meetings small for better flow. Ideally, include 5 to 10 participants to encourage interaction and minimize distractions.
Adapt the Format to the Meeting Objectives
Match the chosen activity to the purpose of the meeting. Informal or creative sessions may work well while walking or cycling, while strategic discussions focus on light movement within a conference room.
Arrange Materials in a Semi-Circle to Encourage Interaction
If the meeting includes any seated discussions, position chairs or desks in a semicircle. This improves visibility, promotes participation, and ensures all attendees feel included.
Minimize Note-Taking
Reduce interruptions by limiting handwritten notes. Use mobile or digital tools to capture key points and share them after the meeting so that participants can focus on both discussion and movement.
Keep Meetings Short to Maintain Energy
Active meetings should be concise to maintain energy and focus. Aim for 30 to 45 minutes to get the most engagement without tiring participants. Clear time limits also improve productivity and satisfaction.
Include Dynamic Exchange Times
Brief interactive segments, such as mini-games or brainstorming sessions, are a great way to vary the pace and make meetings more engaging. Light activities increase team cohesion and sustain participants’ interest, contributing to the success of the active meeting.
Conclusion
Active meetings at work get people moving, keep them productive, speed up decision-making, and make the whole experience more enjoyable. Finally, meetings can stop being a chore and become something people actually look forward to.
