Get set, warm-up: Kerala govt offices to introduce daily 10-minute fitness sessions

Edappal: Government employees will soon begin their workdays with a 10-minute warm-up session as part of a new initiative to combat lifestyle diseases. The sessions will be held either in the morning before work or before lunch, following a government directive to launch a mass campaign promoting employee health.

District collectors have begun issuing instructions to office heads, mandating daily warm-up exercises. These sessions will also be incorporated into monthly meetings and training programs.

New regulations have been introduced for food served at office functions, including farewell parties, welcome events and retirement ceremonies. Employees are encouraged to opt for healthier choices such as steamed snacks, low-sugar tea, tender coconut water, boiled water, fruits and low-fat food items.

Offices must also conduct lifestyle disease screenings and maintain a database of employee health records. Nearby family health centres and medical officers will provide support for these efforts. Additional recommendations include installing information boards on lifestyle disease control and anti-tobacco messages, as well as implementing centralised music systems for mental relaxation.

The government has also proposed recognising and encouraging employees who commute to work by bicycle as part of the initiative to promote a healthier lifestyle.