How a Walking Challenge Changed Rita's Life at Synlab

Some people inspire everyone around them. At YuMuuv we see many of these role models – people who end every month above 100% activity and never miss a step. This is the story of one of them, and of how a company walking challenge changed her daily life.

At a Glance

• Who: Rita, Office Manager at Synlab
• Challenge: monthly company walking challenges with a 10,000-step daily goal
• What changed: she swapped the car and the elevator for walking, lost weight, and sleeps and focuses better
• Company impact: walking became so normal at Synlab that new employees pick up their activity monitors within a week of joining

Car Engine Noise Replaced With Nature Sounds

Rita had worked at Synlab for 15 years, the last two of them with YuMuuv, when we spoke to her. “I have to be honest and say that after joining this Muuv, I've forgotten about the lifts. I only use them to carry heavy things, but otherwise the stairs between first seven floors have become quite familiar.”

As Rita says, people need the power of a game to stay consistent. “I've always been an active person, but I'm also comfortable.” Before, a car took her from A to B. After joining the challenge, she started walking regardless of the weather, just to see what she was capable of. “When I talk about weight, I lost a lot.”

Every month, cars at Synlab collectively take a break while sneakers take over. “The goal of walking 10,000 steps must be met, and there are also prizes for the best performers.”

Better Sleep and a Clearer Mind

Time spent moving also helps Rita plan her day. “Otherwise there is a lot of chaotic operating.” Beyond clarity of thought, she highlights better sleep – and with good sleep, she has the energy to make the most of the next day.

Colleagues Help You Stay on Track

“Moving with colleagues is definitely more motivating than doing it alone. Everyone has someone to compete with and it pushes you to try harder.” In two years, Synlab made movement so familiar that new employees come to pick up their activity monitors within a week of joining.

As an excellent walker, Rita has taken home a number of prizes. “The prizes are symbolic, but good.” Synlab has rewarded its most active people with practical items such as umbrellas and jackets, and the organizers keep their ears open for prizes colleagues would genuinely like – one of the secrets of a successful challenge.

Rita's Advice for Anyone Starting Out

For anyone who wants to move more, Rita recommends a calm mind and a strong will to act. “When you come to the realisation that you're doing it for yourself, for your own well-being, then you're a winner.”

And if motivation is hard to find? “If you can't do it alone, get a moving buddy! One of you will pick yourself up when the going gets tough and pull the other one with him!”

Key Takeaways for Your Company

• Make it a monthly habit. Regular challenges turn walking into part of the culture.
• Give people practical prizes they actually want – see the wellness challenge rewards guide.
• Support tracking. Offering activity monitors helps new employees join from day one – here are the benefits of a fitness tracker.
• Encourage buddies and teams. Social motivation keeps people going.

Ready to start? Read our guide to a step challenge at work or more customer stories.

Move With Your Colleagues

If you feel like moving together with your colleagues, book a demo and we will make it happen!