The study, conducted among more than 1,000 hybrid workers, highlights how the increased use of local flexible workspaces has played a pivotal role in this shift. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of commutes to local workspaces are now mostly or entirely active, a 38% increase compared to commutes to city center offices.
Active commuting methods such as walking (88%), cycling (34%), and running (28%) dominate, with workers traveling on average 324 km on foot, 366 km running, and 418 km by bike annually to their local workspaces. Some are even using scooters (7%), skateboards (6%), and rollerblades (4%) as alternatives to traditional commutes by train or car, taking advantage of the proximity of workspaces to their homes.
The research shows older workers, aged 55-64, have made the most significant strides in adopting active commuting. This age group reported a 109% increase in physical activity when traveling to local workspaces instead of central offices. Walking remains the most popular exercise, with older workers covering an additional 259 km annually through active commuting.
Two-thirds (67%) of respondents aged 55-64 said they are more likely to incorporate exercise into their commute when using a local workspace. Additionally, more than three-quarters (79%) of older workers reported improved physical health as a result.
Active commuting not only enhances physical health but also significantly boosts mental wellbeing and workplace productivity. Over four in five (82%) of active commuters reported improved mental health, while three in five (60%) said they experienced increased productivity at work.
This aligns with earlier findings from IWG that 75% of hybrid workers saw a dramatic reduction in burnout symptoms after transitioning to a hybrid model. The work/life balance improvements have driven job satisfaction for 85% of hybrid workers, with 75% reporting greater motivation.
Given the clear health benefits, nearly three in five (59%) of workers want employers to provide access to local workspaces, enabling them to fit in more exercise. Three-quarters (75%) said they are more likely to incorporate physical activity into their commute when using a local workspace.
Business leaders appear to be heeding these calls, with three-quarters (75%) of CEOs stating that a five-day central office return is no longer a business priority. Two-thirds (65%) expressed concerns about losing talent if employees were required to be in a central office daily.
To meet this growing demand, IWG has opened 465 new locations in the first half of 2024, with most situated in rural, suburban, and commuter areas closer to workers’ homes.
Mark Dixon, CEO of IWG, stated, “The growing use of workspaces closer to where employees live, allowing them to reduce long daily commutes, is contributing to major improvements in workers’ physical and mental wellbeing.
“This research demonstrates that hybrid working is a win/win for everyone. Business leaders are seeing substantial productivity and financial gains, while employees enjoy a better work/life balance and higher job satisfaction.
“Companies are increasingly appreciating that not only will they have a happier, healthier workforce when they allow people to work flexibly, but people actually feel more productive and motivated.”
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