The highly anticipated Edenred Yritysmaratonviesti, held in Helsinki on May 22, drew a record number of participants. Throughout the day, participants experienced the joy of exercise, a wonderful sense of camaraderie, and enthusiastic cheering as teams from various companies set out to complete their combined marathon distance. 

The running course featured everything from top-level performances to cheerful first-timers, and everyone was united by the same goal: the joy of movement and the spirit of participation. Each team moved at its own pace — some with a competitive spirit, others just enjoying the ride. A record 439 teams from hundreds of different companies signed up for this year’s event in Helsinki. 

Participants particularly praised the event’s warm and friendly atmosphere, as well as the opportunity to spend time with colleagues in a relaxed setting.  

– It’s great to see so many workplaces getting involved. Exercising together strengthens team spirit and sends a clear message that companies view well-being as a priority, says Petteri Poutiainen, CEO of Edenred Finland. 

Businesses play an important role in promoting physical activity  

Physical inactivity among working-age Finns is a significant challenge that an increasing number of employers are looking to address. Studies show that getting enough physical activity supports work ability, reduces stress, and is linked to lower rates of sick leave. 

– Companies have a unique opportunity to influence the well-being of Finns. When workplaces join in to promote their employees’ physical activity and well-being, the impact is far-reaching. The Yritysmaratonviesti is one way to do this — while exercising together, we’re also building a more sustainable work life and a better everyday experience for workplaces, summarizes Lauri Ijäs, Event Manager at the Finnish Olympic Committee. 

The Yritysmaratonviesti was held once again to promote physical activity among children 

The significance of the Yritysmaratonviesti extends beyond the event itself, as the proceeds go toward promoting physical activity among children and young people. This year, the proceeds will help make Olympic Day possible, which will be celebrated on September 4 at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. 

Olympic Day brings around 10,000 children to the stadium to try out more than 30 different sports. The day offers a unique opportunity to discover the joy of physical activity, get excited about new sports, and meet other young people sharing the same experience. 

— The spark of physical activity can be ignited in a single day and carry on well into the future — for both children and adults. Through the Yritysmaratonviesti, we can help ignite that spark in both groups, says Ijäs happily. 

The next Yritysmaratonviesti will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Särkänniemi event beach in Tampere. Join us for the most energetic workplace event of the spring!