Why fitness is a worthy benefit
Published by HealthFitness on November 24th, 2023
Physical activity is one of the most crucial things employees can do to maintain and improve their overall health and wellbeing, but many find it difficult to fit it into their schedules. Given how much time employees spend at work, providing a space where employees can fit in a workout but also take a break, reset, destress, and connect with others, enables them to be their best selves at work and fosters community and connection.
As benefit directors start looking at budgets and planning their health and benefits package for 2024, they recognize that offering a health and fitness solution is a worthy benefit. In fact, two-thirds of large employers (those with 500 or more employees) say they plan to improve their health and wellness offerings in 2024 to help attract and keep employees and better meet their needs.
Here's why fitness is a worthy investment that can yield long-term benefits for both your employees and your company.
1. Improve physical health
Exercise and engaging in fitness can help employees maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, strengthen the immune system, and improve overall well-being.
2. Boost engagement
Fitness programs can significantly increase employee engagement and morale. Engaged employees are more likely to be motivated, loyal, and satisfied with their jobs. Regular exercise can also reduce stress and improve work-life balance, leading to higher job satisfaction and reduced absenteeism.
3. Increase energy and focus
Exercise has been shown to stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function, which can result in better problem-solving skills and creativity. By adding fitness into their routine, employees can experience increased alertness and concentration, leading to enhanced productivity and efficiency at work.
4. Enhance mental wellbeing
Exercise is known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting positive mental health. By offering fitness benefits, employers can help employees manage work-related stress and maintain their mental wellbeing. This can result in improved focus, resilience, and overall satisfaction with work.
5. Encourage team building and morale
Fitness-related activities, such as group workouts or team sports, can foster a sense of camaraderie among employees. By encouraging fitness, employers provide opportunities for employees to engage in shared experiences and build relationships outside of the typical work environment. This can boost morale, teamwork, and collaboration among colleagues.
6. Improve work-life balance
Incorporating fitness into the workday helps employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. Offering on-site fitness facilities, flexible scheduling for workouts, or wellness programs allows employees to prioritize their physical health without compromising their job responsibilities. This balance leads to increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
7. Attract talent
Offering fitness benefits can help organizations stand out as employers of choice. In today's competitive job market, companies that prioritize employee wellbeing and provide comprehensive benefits, including fitness programs, are more likely to attract and retain top talent. This can contribute to a positive company culture and help with recruitment efforts. Employees who feel supported and appreciated are more likely to remain with the company, reducing turnover rates and recruitment costs.
Overall, fitness benefits to employees promote their physical and mental wellbeing, increase productivity, foster a positive work environment, and contribute to the overall success of the company.
Learn more
With something for everyone, our comprehensive fitness solution provides choice, variety, flexibility and convenience to meet your employees where they are and bring them together.
Contact us for a no-obligation meeting to learn more about our fitness solution.