According to the NHS’s physical activity guidelines, it’s recommended that adults engage in some form of physical exercise on a daily basis. Even participating in exercise just once or twice a week can significantly decrease the risk of heart disease or a serious illness.
We are all guilty of spending too much time sitting during our working day and not moving as much as we’d like as work commitments take over and gym sessions are sacrificed when emails keep landing.
What about a workplace gym? Workplace gyms come in various forms and designs and are generally tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of different organisations and their employees. These range from on-site gyms/fitness studios and wellbeing centres to virtual fitness platforms and outdoor fitness areas.
At motive8 we understand the importance of offering and designing workplace gyms, and wellbeing fitness facilities. We have witnessed how prioritising these spaces enables organisations to create the ideal environment for employees to maintain their health and fitness, ultimately fostering productivity in their work.
Investing in a gym or a fitness facility at your workplace offers numerous benefits for both employers and employees. Here we highlight the many benefits of setting up a gym in the workplace.
A healthier workforce = higher productivity
Encouraging employees to stay fit and healthy is now a given and on the agenda of most organisations.
Despite busy schedules, incorporating regular exercise into the workday is crucial for overall physical health. By providing on-site fitness facilities, employees can easily integrate workouts into their daily routines, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. A healthier workforce results in increased energy levels and less sick days, ultimately leading to higher employee productivity
Supporting mental wellbeing
Physical health and mental wellbeing are very closely linked, with exercise known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Incorporating a gym into the workplace provides employees with a much-needed outlet to unwind and recharge during busy and stressful workdays. Whether it’s a brisk workout before work or a calming mindfulness session during lunch break, access to on-site fitness facilities promotes emotional resilience and fosters a positive work environment.
Improving productivity
Exercise isn’t just beneficial for the body and mind, it also supercharges cognitive function. A number of studies have shown that regular physical activity enhances focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills, making employees more effective and efficient in their roles. By investing in a workplace gym, employers can harness the power of exercise to maximise productivity and drive business success. We are all very aware that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce.
Cultivating connection & creating a community
A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing helps develop a sense of belonging, community, and loyalty among its staff. Providing access to on-site fitness facilities demonstrates a commitment to the holistic health and happiness of employees, which leads to greater job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. Since Covid, we have seen the power of community, and what better way to bring employees together than working out together or sharing their love of fitness.
Attracting talent
Providing exceptional fitness facilities not only highlights a supportive company culture when it comes to the health and wellbeing of its employees but is also seen as a perk. Attracting top talent is a challenge but offering perks such as first-class fitness facilities or wellbeing sessions is known to be a very attractive prospect for new employees and also helps retain existing employees.
Cost Savings
While the initial investment in setting up a workplace gym may seem significant, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and improved employee retention translate into tangible savings for businesses. Furthermore, offering on-site fitness facilities may result in lower health insurance premiums and healthcare expenses, making it a financially savvy decision in the long run.
Sustainability
Commuting to and from external gyms contributes to carbon emissions and environmental pollution. By introducing fitness facilities into the workplace, companies can promote sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint. Encouraging employees to exercise on-site minimises the need for additional transportation, supports corporate sustainability goals and supports sustainable lifestyles.
There’s no denying the advantages of setting up a gym within the workplace. As the UK market leader in premium health, fitness, and leisure solutions, motive8 is passionate about designing and installing workplace gyms and has seen the success of these spaces in a whole host of workplace environments.
Ready to embark on the journey of setting up a gym or fitness facility in the workplace but unsure where to start? Get in touch with our gym design consultants today and discover how we can assist you: Tel: 020 8481 9700 or email: info@m8group.co.uk.
