The importance of corporate fitness

The logic behind why companies adopt employee wellness programs is fairly straightforward. Multiple studies from reputable sources show healthy employees cost employers less when it comes to health insurance and paid medical leave.

Corporate fitness doesn’t just benefit the bottom line, however. Regular exercise and the subsequent increased release in the feel-good chemical serotonin does much to boosts moods, reduce stress, increase creativity, sharpen memory and enhance brainpower — all benefits in a workplace setting. There are even more benefits to corporate wellness outside of the workplace. An individual who is mindful of their diet and who is investing in consistent exercise is less likely to smoke cigarettes, is likelier to have improved hygiene, is better able to manage their blood pressure and cholesterol, and has material and lasting weight loss results.

Seems like a no-brainer, but the challenge of adopting corporate wellness programs in business exists. People can lose interest if they’re not motivated frequently. Here are a few tips on developing and maintaining a successful corporate wellness program:

Choose a program leader

Too many people involved in one task can easily lead to miscommunication or, ultimately, failure. Choose one person who exhibits the stamina and energy to lead the program.

Keep staff engaged

It’s easy to get excited about something new, but with every new thing, the novelty eventually wears off. Find ways to keep participants engaged by promoting the program. Talk about it at staff meetings, give updates on progress, and incorporate new challenges each week for the best engagement outcomes.

Offer incentives

People are more likely to participate if they know they’ll get something out of it. Sometimes, health and wellness isn’t enough motivation for staff members to stay the course long-term. Give your staff little incentives along their wellness journey. Perks can be as simple as an opportunity to leave work an hour early, a gift card, or a month to park in the office’s prized parking spot. The investment in small and easy incentives pays off when your team is happy and healthy.

Track progress

Wellness is a process, and results for many are never immediate or major. But when you track your progress, you can make comparisons three months into the program and begin to see the results and benefits of corporate wellness.

Create friendly competition

Create employee teams and challenge them to compete against each other. It’s a chance for your staff to build camaraderie and develop stronger friendships with their coworkers. The friendly competition between employees will keep participants motivated to work hard for their team.