The Importance of Workplace Fitness
In today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily lives. This lack of movement is not just a personal concern; it has significant implications for employers as well. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to numerous health issues, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and musculoskeletal problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control, physical inactivity contributes to a staggering $117 billion in healthcare costs and is linked to premature death for one in ten people.
Beyond the physical implications, a lack of exercise can negatively impact mental wellness, energy levels, sleep patterns, and mood. Zack Papalia, a senior population health and well-being consultant at Brown & Brown Insurance, emphasizes that the benefits of regular physical activity extend far beyond just weight loss, impacting both the body and the mind.
The Reality of Physical Activity
The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity each week, along with two rounds of muscle-strengthening exercises. However, the CDC reports that less than 30% of people meet these guidelines. A common misconception that prevents people from starting or sticking with a fitness routine is the belief that only long, intense workouts yield results. Papalia notes that this is simply not true.
Movement as Medicine
Papalia advocates for the concept of “movement as medicine,” a widely accepted idea that increased movement in general leads to better holistic health. Employers can play a pivotal role in facilitating access to physical activity, both within and outside the workplace. This approach benefits employees by enhancing their physical and mental health, while also improving employee satisfaction, organizational culture, and recruitment and retention rates.
How Employers Can Promote Fitness
Flexible Wellness Options
Recognizing that everyone’s health journey is unique, employers should provide employees with a variety of options to take control of their wellness. Instead of focusing on a single, specific wellness vendor, employers can offer lifestyle spending accounts that allow employees to choose options that resonate with them. This broader approach not only empowers employees but also relieves the pressure on employers to find the perfect third-party platform.
Building a Mobile Work Environment
Benefits aren’t the only way to get employees moving. Companies can also create a work environment that encourages mobility throughout the day. Simple changes like incorporating standing desks, using centralized trash cans, and other small adjustments can collectively make a big difference. Leaders can also set an example by organizing walking meetings or active lunches, integrating physical activity into the daily routine.
Practical Strategies for a Healthier Workplace
There are several practical ways employers can integrate fitness into the workday. These include:
- On-site fitness facilities: If possible, providing an on-site gym with equipment like treadmills, weights, and exercise bikes can encourage employees to incorporate exercise into their routine. Group exercise classes such as yoga or circuit training can also foster team spirit.
- Promoting active commuting: Encourage employees to walk or cycle to work by providing secure bike storage and shower facilities. Incentives like cycle-to-work schemes can make active commuting more attractive.
- Fitness challenges and competitions: Organizing fitness challenges or competitions can increase engagement and motivation. Offering rewards for achieving fitness goals, encompassing all levels of fitness and ability, can further incentivize participation.
- Healthy snacks and drinks: Providing healthy snacks and drinks in meetings, office kitchens, and in-house food outlets promotes nutritious eating habits. This should be supported with education around optimal nutrition choices.
- Designated activity areas: Creating designated areas for physical activity such as walking routes, outdoor workout spaces, or quiet stretching areas can make it easier for employees to be active.
- Wellness programs: Offer various wellness programs, such as weight loss challenges, fitness competitions, or wellness workshops, to motivate employees and create a sense of community.
- Professional staff: Employing certified fitness instructors and trainers can provide employees with guidance, personalized workout plans, and group classes.
- Nutritional Guidance: Providing nutritionists or dietitians can help educate employees and provide healthy eating tips.
- Flexible Hours: Consider extending the operating hours of fitness facilities to accommodate different schedules, allowing more employees to access the fitness center.
Educating and Empowering Employees
It’s crucial to educate employees on the long-term health benefits of even small amounts of daily activity. Papalia points out that there are 10,080 minutes in a week, so facilitating or helping individuals find just 1.4% of that time to move can make a significant difference. This doesn’t require intense workout classes or heavy weightlifting; any form of movement can have a clinically significant impact on long-term health and well-being.
Benefits for Both Employees and Employers
Incorporating fitness into the workday is not just beneficial for employees; it also offers significant advantages for employers:
- Increased Productivity: Regular physical activity boosts cognitive function, memory, and overall productivity. Employees who exercise regularly tend to experience improved focus, heightened creativity, and increased energy levels.
- Reduced Healthcare Costs: A healthier workforce leads to reduced healthcare costs due to fewer chronic health issues and lower absenteeism.
- Enhanced Employee Engagement: Engaged employees are more loyal and committed to their organizations. Workplace fitness initiatives can significantly boost employee engagement and create a positive work environment.
- Improved Company Culture: Fitness programs can create a sense of community and teamwork, ultimately improving overall company culture.
- Better Employee Retention: Offering attractive wellness benefits can help companies retain top talent and improve employee satisfaction.
- Reduced Absenteeism: Healthy employees take fewer sick days, which leads to less work disruption and higher productivity.
- Lower Stress: Regular exercise is a proven stress reducer. By providing an outlet for physical activity, employers can help reduce workplace stress and improve employee morale.
Making it Happen
To effectively integrate fitness into the workplace, employers should:
- Understand employee needs: Survey employees to understand their specific needs and interests regarding fitness programs.
- Build a Comprehensive Program: Offer holistic activities to accommodate different stages of the wellness journey and provide flexible participation options.
- Involve all levels of the organization: Get leadership involved and create wellness champions and committees.
- Make participation easy and accessible: Leverage technology, automation, and flexible work arrangements to make participation convenient.
- Communicate effectively: Use all available channels to communicate information about fitness programs and benefits.
- Offer rewards and incentives: Incentivize participation with rewards for achieving fitness goals.
Brown & Brown’s Commitment to Employee Well-being
Brown & Brown Insurance is committed to creating a culture of well-being. The company recognizes that investing in employee health is vital for attracting and retaining talent. As Zack Papalia has highlighted, even small changes in daily activity can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being. By promoting “movement as medicine” and providing flexible wellness options, companies can create a healthier and more productive workplace.
By understanding the importance of workplace fitness and implementing effective strategies, employers can empower their employees to lead healthier lives, while also enhancing the overall success of their organizations.
