I still like my idea.
In the job centre, there will be hundreds of exercise bikes, plugged into the national grid.
You spend all day cycling to pump energy back into the grid. You get 2 meals when you're there and a shower at the end.
During your breaks you can apply for jobs etc
I did think about another idea but slight less techy. Have a big factory where people on the dole go, they team up to turn large turbines that have handles on. You know like in old grain mills where around 6 people push a wheel around in circles
Your idea is better though as it would encourage them to look for a job. If their effort drops below a certain amount then they should be whipped, or lose a meal