In the landscape of contemporary workplaces, employee wellness initiatives have moved to center stage, and rightly so. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, only 23% of employees are actively engaged in the workplace. This number is far too low.
But what if we told you that implementing fitness classes at work could be a game-changer for your organization? Offering these classes straight out of your office not only demonstrates a commitment to employees’ health but also brings a host of benefits like improved productivity.
But to get these benefits, you need a great strategy. Read on as we delve into the importance of making fitness an integral part of your workplace and how to implement it successfully.
3 Reasons Why it’s Vital to Offer On-site Fitness Classes at Work
We need to stay active to improve our health and wellness, but why should you specifically offer fitness classes at work? Here are three reasons why it’s vital to provide on-site classes.
1. Boosting Employee Morale and Productivity
Providing fitness opportunities not only shows your commitment to employees’ well-being but also encourages a healthy balance in their life, which can improve their work performance.
The implementation of regular exercise boosts mental and physical health, enhances mood, and reduces stress, making your staff happier and more productive. Moreover, these fitness sessions may foster team building since employees have the chance to interact in a casual atmosphere, creating harmonious relationships that translate into better teamwork.
2. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
Fitness classes send the message that you value your employees’ well-being beyond their professional contributions. By facilitating easy access to health and fitness activities during work hours, you provide an opportunity for staff to incorporate exercise into their daily routine.
Regular physical activity can prevent chronic diseases, reduce anxiety, and improve both mental and cognitive functions. In turn, this leads to healthier employees who are likely to be more energetic, attentive, and productive in their roles. This fosters a stronger workforce.
3. A Pandemic-Proof Gym Option
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the way we access fitness facilities. This is a big reason why marketing for gyms became so complicated during this time, as it was difficult for them to offer a safe area to work out. Fortunately, your work can offer that dedicated space.
The inclusion of on-site fitness classes not only promotes health and well-being amongst staff but also demonstrates your company’s adaptability during challenging times. Thus, it’s a practical and thoughtful step toward ensuring safety while driving employee engagement.
7 Steps to Implementing On-site Gym Classes in the Workplace
Now that we know why it’s a good idea to offer on-site fitness classes, you’re probably wondering how to get started. Here are 7 steps you need to take to implement your classes.
Step 1: Assess Interest and Set Goals
The first step to introducing on-site fitness classes at your workplace should be to assess interest and set goals. Start with an open conversation or a survey to gauge how many of your employees are interested in participating in fitness-related classes during work hours.
Based on their input, you can also determine which types of activities they prefer, like yoga or cardio workouts, for instance. Once you clearly understand your team’s interest level, set achievable goals regarding the frequency, timing, and structure of the offered classes.
Step 2: Budget Allocation
Careful financial planning will ensure that the allotted resources will meet all your employees’ needs without straining the company’s finances. Your budget should consider factors such as employing a certified personal trainer, acquiring necessary equipment, maintaining that equipment, and perhaps even modifying a designated space for these fitness classes.
Keep in mind that it’s always better to invest efficiently in quality than settle for less due to budget constraints. After all, this initiative is an investment in your team’s health and happiness.
Step 3: Staff Hiring
It’s essential to contract certified fitness instructors who can guide your team safely and effectively through their workouts. These professionals will be able to create diverse exercise routines tailored to varying fitness levels within your staff, fostering an environment of inclusivity.
Besides skills and qualifications, also look for individuals who are good motivators with the ability to inspire and encourage others. Remember that they will play a major part in creating an engaging, supportive, and fun atmosphere that your staff will look forward to being part of.
Step 4: Space Selection
The location should be large enough to accommodate group exercises without feeling overcrowded. Additionally, it needs to be compliant with health and safety regulations, providing easy access to water, ventilation, and maybe even natural sunlight for an uplifting atmosphere.
It should also be convenient for all employees to reach and use without causing disruption to other office activities. Your location can play a big part in the overall success of the program.
Step 5: Schedule Creation
The next step is schedule creation. You’ll need to plan workout classes at times that are convenient for your employees and compatible with the workplace’s daily routine. Perhaps arrange classes before work, during lunch breaks, or after office hours to minimize disruption.
Moreover, ensuring flexibility by offering different class options can cater to various schedules and preferences. It’s crucial that this fitness initiative doesn’t interfere with regular work duties.
Step 6: Roll out the Strategy
Effective communication plays a significant role in ensuring this new wellness initiative is well-received by everyone. This could involve assigning a specific day for its launch, publicizing it through an email newsletter, or dedicating a special meeting to talk about it in detail.
The main goal is to generate excitement and engagement while making sure that all important aspects of the program, such as schedules and benefits, are clearly understood by participants.
Step 7: Ongoing Evaluation
As the last step in implementing on-site fitness classes at work, ongoing evaluation is key. It’s important to set up continuous check-ins or feedback sessions with the program participants. This will help you identify any potential issues and make necessary improvements over time.
Regular feedback can allow you to understand how well the program is being received, which aspects are most beneficial, and where there might be room for enhancement. Remember that open communication lines ensure this initiative maintains relevance, thus promoting consistent participation and achieving its goal of fostering health and wellness among employees.
In Conclusion
As you can see, implementing on-site fitness classes at work is a thoughtful investment in your employees’ health and well-being. From boosting morale and productivity to advocating healthier lifestyles and being a pandemic-proof solution, the benefits are very numerous.
