Meeting and event planners are no strangers to the pressure of driving engagement, boosting learning outcomes, and keeping attendees energized throughout long agendas. But what if the key to unlocking all three lies in something simple — movement?

That’s exactly what Dr. Michael Donovan, who has a PhD in Nutritional Neurophysiology, shared on a recent episode of the Return on Wellness podcast, hosted by wellness expert David T. Stevens and sponsored by Caesars Entertainment. The episode explored how incorporating purposeful movement into meetings and events can enhance brain function, improve attention and boost cognitive performance. Here are some highlights.

Light Up Brains, Not Just Rooms

“When we bring people together, we’re not just stacking chairs and slides,” said Stevens. “We’re trying to light up brains.” And adding a movement break or three can help.

The science backs that assumption up. Light to moderate physical activity activates something called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) — a protein that supports learning, memory, attention and alertness. The goal, according to Donovan, is to create short, accessible movement opportunities that fit seamlessly into the event flow without disrupting content delivery.

So how can planners put this into practice? Donovan shared several actionable strategies to help meetings literally move attendees toward higher performance.

Keep Movement Breaks Short and Social

– 3 to 5 Minutes Is Enough
Just a few minutes of movement — such as walking, stretching, or gentle marching — can stimulate BDNF and sharpen focus. Donovan recommends incorporating these micro-breaks three to five times per day for maximum benefit.
– Strategic Timing
Consider placing movement breaks between key agenda segments, such as between a keynote and breakout sessions, after lunch, or before evening programming.
– Make It a Networking Opportunity
Encourage attendees to move and mingle. One idea: launch a “walk club” during lunch where participants can connect over a stroll. Just ensure food is available throughout the lunch period to accommodate walkers and eaters alike.

Make Movement Easy, Optional and Inclusive

– Low-Barrier Activities
Movement doesn’t need to mean high intensity. Walking, changing seats and gentle stretching all count. “Even asking attendees to sit next to someone new can spark brain activity through problem-solving,” said Donovan.
– No Sweat Required
The goal is to spark alertness without making attendees sweat through their business attire. Bodyweight movements that use large muscle groups (like the legs) can be effective without being intimidating.
– Inclusive for All Abilities
Partner with certified fitness professionals to design scalable activities that accommodate varying fitness levels and mobility needs. Keep instructions clear and ensure everyone feels welcome to join — or opt out.

Measure the Impact
– Test and Survey
Want to prove the ROI of movement? Start with a simple experiment: skip movement breaks on day one, then introduce them on day two. Use QR codes to prompt feedback surveys after sessions. Ask attendees how the two days compared in terms of mood, focus and energy.
– Incentivize Feedback
To boost participation, offer access to event photos for those who complete the survey. Stevens noted he achieved an 85% response rate at a 450-person conference using this method.
– Use the Data to Win Leadership Buy-In
The feedback you collect can help build a compelling case for integrating movement into future events — backed by data and attendee testimonials.

The Future of Meetings Is Moving

As meeting planners continue to innovate around wellness, adding intentional movement to the agenda is more than a trend — it’s a proven way to boost engagement, cognition and connection.

It’s not about turning meetings into workouts. It’s about giving people what their bodies and brains need to stay sharp, social and stimulated. Because at the end of the day, successful meetings don’t just deliver content — they create experiences that energize.