A walking meeting is a work discussion held while one or more participants walk; it can suit a simple conversation when everyone is comfortable with that format. Choose a clear purpose, route or remote-call setup, and an equally valid seated or accessible alternative.
For other ways to break up desk time, see desk movement breaks.
For a separate prompt between meetings, explore Move A Little for Mac.
Key facts
- The CDC suggests walking meetings or calls where possible and notes standing, stretching or moving during calls as options (page dated February 5, 2025).
- A CDC workplace guide suggests small walking discussions and advises sensitivity to people with disabilities or conditions that prohibit participation (2012).
- The American Heart Association suggests informal discussions or brainstorming while moving.
- These are options, not evidence that walking meetings improve productivity or health for every person.
Is a walking meeting right for this topic?
Consider it for a focused check-in, informal discussion or open-ended brainstorm where participants can talk without needing a shared screen or extensive note-taking. Set the topic and desired outcome before choosing the format.
Keep the meeting seated or use another format when people need to examine documents together, make a detailed decision, take careful notes, or discuss sensitive information. A walking invitation should never be a condition of participation. Some participants may have mobility, health, safety, sensory or other reasons to prefer another option.
Plan an in-person walk
- Ask participants whether walking works for them; offer a seated option without asking anyone to explain personal circumstances.
- Choose a route with a surface and pace suitable for those who opt in. Check the weather, access, traffic and other local conditions.
- Keep the group small enough for everyone to hear and contribute.
- Share the topic and any materials in advance. If you need to refer to a screen, document or detailed notes, schedule a seated session instead.
- Agree on a time limit and a simple way to capture decisions afterward, such as a short written summary.
A route does not need to be long. The purpose is a conversation in a format participants choose, not a distance or exercise target.
Make a remote walking call optional
A remote participant may choose to join an audio call while walking, while others join from a desk or another accessible setting. Tell everyone the format in advance and make clear that walking is optional.
Consider whether the conversation can be heard by people nearby, whether the participant has a reliable connection, and whether the environment allows attention to the discussion and surroundings. Avoid asking someone to share their location or camera view. If privacy, audio quality or safety is uncertain, stay seated or reschedule in a format that works.
Choose an inclusive alternative
Walking is not necessary to take a break from sitting. Depending on a person’s needs and preference, alternatives may include joining seated, standing, stretching, using an accessible route, or taking part by audio from a stationary location. The CDC lists standing, stretching or moving during calls as possible options; the choice belongs to each participant.
For ideas on pacing breaks, read how long movement breaks should be. Move A Little offers a Smart Pause feature page for its reminder app; it is separate from meeting format advice. If a movement reminder would fit your routine, you can review the purchase page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a walking meeting?
It is a work conversation held while one or more participants walk, when the topic and participants make that format suitable.
Can you have a walking meeting remotely?
Some people may join an audio call while walking, but participation should be optional and privacy, surroundings and connection considered.
When should a meeting stay seated?
Choose a seated or other format when the discussion needs shared screens, detailed notes, confidential conversation, or when walking does not work for a participant.
A walking meeting is one possible conversation format. Pick it only when it suits the purpose and everyone can participate comfortably; otherwise, choose another format.