Fun challenges for your workplace this May

As May is Mental Health Awareness month, it’s the perfect opportunity for organisations to focus on employee wellbeing – both mental and physical. One of the simplest ways to support mental health is through movement, and workplace wellbeing challenges can make it fun, inclusive, and motivating.

Whether your team is in the office, remote, or hybrid, walking, stepping, or running challenges are a fantastic way to boost mood, reduce stress, and build connections while celebrating Mental Health Awareness month.

1. Team step challenges

Encourage employees to take on a step challenge and track their daily steps using fitness trackers or smartphone apps. Teams can compete to see who logs the most steps over the month.

• Why it works: Friendly competition increases engagement, and regular walking is proven to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

• Tip: Try a “Step Around the World” challenge, where teams collectively aim to match the distance of a famous route such as Lands End to John o’Groats.

2. Walking meetings

Turn routine meetings into walking sessions – perfect for small teams or one-on-one check-ins.

• Why it works: Walking stimulates creativity, reduces stress, and gives employees a break from screens.

• Tip: Encourage employees to share key takeaways afterwards via Teams or Slack.

3. Virtual fun runs

Organise a May-long challenge where employees set their own distance goals. Participants can log miles online and celebrate milestones.

• Why it works: Employees move at their own pace while creating a sense of achievement.

• Tip: Make it fun with themed days such as “Crazy Sock Run” or “Team Mascot Mile.”

4. Step bingo or movement bingo

Create a bingo card filled with activities: take 3,000 steps in a day, stretch at your desk, try a lunchtime walk, or climb a flight of stairs.

• Why it works: Bingo adds variety and playful motivation while encouraging movement throughout the day.

• Tip: Offer small rewards for completed rows or full cards to maintain engagement.

5. Charity step challenges

Combine movement with giving back. For example, the company could pledge £1 for every 1,000 steps employees log during May.

• Why it works: Employees feel motivated knowing their activity supports a meaningful cause, boosting morale and engagement.

• Tip: Choose a charity that resonates with your workforce for maximum impact.

6. “Walk & learn” sessions

Encourage employees to take short walks while listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or company-led learning modules.

• Why it works: Combines physical activity with personal or professional growth, supporting wellbeing and mental stimulation.

• Tip: Share a curated playlist or library of resources to keep everyone engaged.

7. Office treasure step hunt

Organise a treasure hunt around the office, campus, or local area. Employees earn steps by finding items, completing mini-challenges, or visiting landmarks.

• Why it works: Adds fun, team-building, and playful competition to movement challenges.

• Tip: Use a mobile app or digital leaderboard to track progress and share photos.

Make movement inclusive

The key to successful wellbeing challenges is inclusivity. Not everyone may be able to run or walk long distances, so offer options for all fitness levels. Encourage employees to:

• Set personal goals

• Move at their own pace

• Celebrate achievements, no matter how small

Take the first step this May

Mental Health Awareness Month is the perfect time to prioritise wellbeing. Walking, stepping, or running challenges aren’t just fun, they support mental health, reduce stress, and help employees feel connected and energised.

The great news is workplaces can take part in all of these fun activities with Race At Your Pace. It’s designed to make movement inclusive, flexible, and enjoyable for everyone, whether your team wants to walk, step, or run at their own pace. By signing up, organisations can create a culture of wellbeing this May while supporting employees’ mental and physical health.

Challenges can be tailored specifically for you and your team, so book a demo today, and let’s create the perfect challenge together!