The Science of a Stroll
The idea that walking boosts thinking isn't new; philosophers and writers have sworn by it for centuries. But modern research is now providing concrete evidence. A landmark study from Stanford University found that walking can increase creative output
by an average of 60 percent. This effect is linked to what scientists call divergent thinking—the ability to generate multiple ideas and solutions, which is crucial for brainstorming and problem-solving. The act of walking increases blood flow to the brain and allows the mind to enter a state of relaxed attention, making it easier to form new connections. Interestingly, the Stanford research showed that the creativity boost occurred whether participants walked on a treadmill indoors or strolled outside, suggesting the physical act of walking itself is the key driver.
More Than Just Ideas
The benefits extend beyond just creativity. Research shows that walking meetings can make conversations feel more collaborative and less hierarchical. Walking side-by-side rather than sitting across a table can make participants feel more relaxed and open, which is particularly useful for one-on-one check-ins and coaching sessions. Studies have also reported that employees who participate in walking meetings feel more energised and engaged with their work. From a health perspective, the advantages are clear. Converting even one seated meeting a week into a 30-minute walk helps combat the negative effects of a sedentary office life, reduces stress, and improves mood. It’s a simple way to integrate light physical activity into a packed workday without needing to schedule a separate gym session.
When to Keep Your Seat
Despite the compelling benefits, a walking meeting isn't always the right choice. Research that highlights the boost in creative, divergent thinking also shows that walking can hinder convergent thinking—the process of finding a single, correct solution to a problem. If your meeting's goal is to make a final, data-driven decision, analyse a detailed spreadsheet, or converge on one specific answer, you are better off staying in a traditional setting. Practical issues can also be a barrier. Walking meetings are not ideal for large groups, as it becomes difficult for everyone to hear and participate in a single conversation; small groups of two to four people are best. They are also unsuitable for confidential discussions, meetings requiring a screen or whiteboard, or in poor weather. Accessibility is another critical consideration, as a walking meeting may not be inclusive for all team members.
Making Your First Step Count
Ready to give it a try? Success lies in preparation. First, choose the right type of meeting. Brainstorms, informal check-ins, and early-stage planning sessions are perfect candidates. Always give participants advance notice so they can wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing. It’s also wise to plan a route in advance—ideally a loop that is safe, relatively quiet, and an appropriate length for your scheduled time. For a 30-minute meeting, a simple route around the office block or a nearby park works well. To keep things focused, set a clear agenda and assign roles. Designate someone to facilitate the discussion and another to take notes, which can be done via a voice memo app on a phone or by recapping key takeaways in an email immediately after. For remote teams, a walking meeting can be as simple as switching a video call to an audio-only call and encouraging everyone to walk in their own neighbourhood.
