Walking Meetings: Why They’re Secretly Genius

Most of us spend our workdays glued to screens, stuck in back-to-back meetings that blur into one another. Whether it’s in the office or over Zoom, traditional meetings can sometimes feel like mental quicksand—stagnant, repetitive, and draining. But there’s a refreshingly simple way to change that: take your meetings on the move.

Walking meetings—once a quirky idea—are now embraced by some of the world’s most successful leaders. Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, and Richard Branson all swore by them. And for good reason: research shows that walking meetings can boost creativity, improve focus, and strengthen collaboration. In short, they’re secretly genius.

Here’s why.

1. Walking Boosts Creativity

If you’ve ever had a great idea while strolling outside, you’re not alone. A Stanford University study found that people’s creative output increased by an average of 60% when walking compared to sitting. The simple act of moving your body stimulates blood flow to the brain, helping you think more freely and generate fresh ideas.

When you’re walking, your mind isn’t boxed in by the walls of a meeting room. It’s relaxed, open, and naturally more innovative—exactly the mindset needed for brainstorming, problem-solving, or strategic planning. So instead of scheduling yet another sit-down session, consider a 20-minute walk to spark that next big breakthrough.

2. It Levels the Playing Field

Traditional meetings can unintentionally reinforce hierarchies—there’s the head of the table, the PowerPoint slides, and the same people doing most of the talking. But when you take your meeting outside, that structure disappears.

Walking side-by-side fosters a sense of equality and openness. Conversations flow more naturally, and people tend to share their ideas more freely. It’s no wonder many CEOs use walking meetings for one-on-ones—they encourage genuine connection and honest dialogue without the formality of a boardroom.

3. It’s Healthier (and Happier)

Let’s face it: sitting all day isn’t great for anyone. Studies have shown that excessive sitting is linked to fatigue, back pain, and even decreased mental clarity. Walking meetings help combat this sedentary lifestyle by building movement right into your schedule.

Even a short 15–30 minute walk can lift energy levels, improve posture, and reduce stress. Plus, being outside—even just for a few minutes—boosts mood and motivation. When employees feel better physically, they perform better mentally. It’s a win-win for wellness and productivity.

4. You’ll Stay Focused—Naturally

How often do phones buzz, laptops ping, and attention drifts during regular meetings? Walking meetings minimize those distractions. Without screens and slides, people are more engaged in the conversation itself.

The act of walking keeps your mind alert, while the simplicity of the setting reduces multitasking. You’re fully present, listening, and responding—qualities that are often missing in modern work life. Whether it’s a strategy chat or a performance check-in, walking creates an environment where people actually listen and connect.

5. It Encourages Positive Company Culture

When leaders encourage walking meetings, it signals that well-being and creativity matter. It shows that innovation doesn’t always require a boardroom, a whiteboard, or a corporate setup. Sometimes, progress starts with just putting one foot in front of the other.

This small cultural shift can make a big difference. Teams start to associate meetings with fresh air and energy rather than monotony and fatigue. And employees feel more empowered to share ideas in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting. Over time, that can spark real innovation and engagement across the company.

6. How to Make Walking Meetings Work

Here are a few practical tips to make walking meetings a success:

• Keep it small: 2–3 participants is ideal for clear conversation.

• Choose the right meeting type: Great for brainstorming, check-ins, and coaching—not for presentations or detailed reviews.

• Plan the route: Pick a safe, quiet path or nearby park.

• Set a time limit: 20–30 minutes is perfect.

• Capture key points: Record voice notes or jot down takeaways afterward.

You don’t need fancy logistics—just comfortable shoes and a willingness to move.

Summary: Take the First Step Toward Smarter Work

Walking meetings might seem unconventional, but they make perfect sense for today’s fast-paced world. They combine productivity, creativity, and wellness, helping leaders and teams think more clearly, communicate more openly, and feel more energized.

And just like walking meetings streamline the way you collaborate, Auxo Assist helps streamline the way you work. Our skilled virtual assistants support business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs with marketing, admin, operations, sales, finance, and more—so you can focus on leadership, innovation, and growth.

Let’s keep your business moving forward—one step (and one smart meeting) at a time.