Approximately 41 percent of Americans make a New Year’s resolution. Of those, more than 21 percent resolve to lose weight. Another 5.5 percent say they will work out more often, according to the same source. What better way to help your employees achieve their health goals than with a workplace fitness initiative?
Encouraging fitness in the workplace has many benefits, including reduced absenteeism, lowered stress and decreased healthcare costs. It can also improve job satisfaction, motivation and even quality of sleep. Yet, according to one study, 80 percent of people aren’t ready to take action to better their health. A workplace fitness initiative can be just what they need to get motivated. Help them with these tips and fitness swag.
Let’s get physical
Hold a fitness challenge
A fitness challenge can be a great way to build strong teams (literally and figuratively). Tap into their competitive nature by holding a bike-to-work, miles walked or minutes exercised challenge. They can track their progress manually, with a fitness journal, or via a tracking app of their choice. Winner gets bragging rights plus a wellness giveaway like a Bluetooth® fitness tracker or wireless sport ear buds.
Walk at work
Lunchtime walks and walking meetings are creative ways to fit in physical activity. Encourage employees to be mindful of the number of steps they take each day by providing pedometer watches. Enter those who take the recommended 10,000 steps each day into a prize drawing for a set of workout ear buds or a walking enthusiast kit.
Beat the clock
40 percent of those who don’t exercise cite a lack of time as their number one reason. Whether they feel bogged down with work, travel or family obligations, you can help them win the race against time with fitness swag. For your road warriors, an on-the-go fitness set ensures they can exercise anytime, anywhere. Resistance bands are great for working a variety of muscle groups and can be easily used almost anywhere—including in the office. Consider purchasing a kit for each department or single bands for individual employees.
Make it fun
Nobody wants to exercise if it’s dull and boring. Make fitness fun by organizing a work softball or kickball team. Hold a morning dance party to get their hearts pumping. Or, arrange for a Zumba® or kickboxing instructor to come in after work and exercise with your team.
Help your employees get fit by incorporating physical activity into the workday. Hold a fitness challenge, encourage walking lunches and meetings, make exercise fun and pass out fitness swag to help them achieve their goals. Here’s to a healthier organization in the new year!