Workday x Strava: New initiative puts workplace wellbeing into motion

Workday UK Launches ‘Rise with Workday’ Initiative to Rebuild Human Connection and Support Workplace Wellbeing

As AI rapidly transforms the world of work, Workday UK is launching Rise with Workday—a national initiative designed to bring human connection, movement, and community back to the workplace this autumn. Coming at a time when employee wellbeing is high on the agenda, Workday research reveals that while UK employees remain highly engaged in their work, they are also experiencing increased levels of stress and burnout.  With back-to-work routines resuming this September, Workday is putting its core values into active practice to demonstrate that workplace culture must be intentionally designed around people, not just digital efficiency.

Designing Wellbeing in a Changing World 

Technology moves fast, but real workplace culture relies on how teams support one another through change. 

Workday research paints a mixed picture of the UK workforce. While 97% of UK employees rate their day-to-day work positively, 53% say the way work is structured makes them feel burned out and 27% feel overwhelmed when systems struggle to keep pace with change.

These findings show the growing importance of creating healthier ways of working to give employees the time and space to step away, reset and reconnect.

Putting Culture into Motion 

To support employee wellbeing and connection, Rise with Workday translates abstract culture pillars – focus, adaptability, and genuine fun – into physical action starting 14 September, 2026. The initiative invites business leaders, HR teams, and employees across the UK to step away from their screens, re-establish health routines, and reconnect with colleagues through shared experiences.

• The 30-Day Strava Challenge: A nationwide workplace movement in partnership with Strava, encouraging participants of all fitness levels to log 30 minutes of physical activity twice a week for four weeks.
• Real-World Community Activations: In-person connection opportunities led by UK executive leadership and the Workday London Run Club, featuring local pop-up runs and team challenges.
• Purpose-Driven Social Impact: A charitable partnership with youth sports organisation Access Sport, linking employee well-being directly to community giving and culminating in a fundraising run and walk on 14 October.

As HR leaders rethink autumn wellbeing and mental health strategies, Rise with Workday serves as a practical model for transforming workplace culture into an active, human-first experience. With World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the initiative also creates a timely opportunity to explore how movement, connection and time away from the screen can support healthier working lives.