In the wake of the hybrid work revolution, a groundbreaking study led by Charu Srivastava from the Harvard Graduate School of Design and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has shed light on how workplace environments can influence physical activity levels. Published in the journal *Indoor Environments* (which translates to *Indoor Environments* in English), the research offers valuable insights for employers, architects, and urban planners aiming to create healthier, more dynamic workspaces.
The study, which tracked the movements of 245 participants over 245 days, revealed a striking 33% increase in daily step counts when employees worked from the office compared to home. This translates to an extra 2,580 steps—or roughly 25 minutes of additional physical activity—per day. “We found that the office environment inherently encourages more movement,” Srivastava explained. “Simple features like stairs, walking commutes, and even the act of entering and exiting the building contribute to this increase.”
The data showed that on days when participants spent even part of their workday in the office, their step counts spiked during reported entry and exit times. A mixed-effects model further identified key predictors of increased activity: walking commutes and the presence of stairs significantly boosted step counts on office days, while access to gym equipment or exercise tools at home did the same for remote days.
Beyond the numbers, qualitative feedback from participants underscored the benefits of active commutes, walking meetings, and urban amenities. “People really valued the spontaneity of movement in the office—whether it was taking the stairs or stepping out for a quick walk,” Srivastava noted. “At home, having easy access to gym equipment or nearby parks made a big difference.”
For the commercial sector, particularly in energy-efficient building design, these findings could reshape how workspaces are planned. Offices that prioritize walkability, natural movement, and health-promoting features may not only improve employee well-being but also attract talent in a competitive market. “This isn’t just about health—it’s about productivity and engagement,” Srivastava said. “Companies that invest in environments that encourage movement are likely to see long-term benefits.”
As hybrid work becomes the norm, this research could inspire architects and developers to rethink office layouts, incorporating more dynamic spaces that encourage physical activity. For energy-conscious industries, the study suggests that promoting movement doesn’t have to come at the expense of efficiency—it can be seamlessly integrated into the design. The findings also highlight the importance of urban planning that supports active lifestyles, whether through pedestrian-friendly infrastructure or accessible green spaces.
In an era where sedentary behavior is a growing concern, this study offers a roadmap for creating work environments that keep people moving—whether they’re in the office or at home. As Srivastava put it, “The future of work isn’t just about where we work, but how we move while we do it.”