Written by: Dana Wisniewski, MS | Health Promotion Manager | AdvantageHealth Corporation
Employee wellbeing has emerged as a top priority for organizations seeking to create a thriving, engaged, and productive workforce. As businesses adapt to new post-pandemic dynamics, onsite corporate fitness centers have risen to prominence as a valuable asset, offering a multitude of benefits that extend beyond physical health. With over two decades of experience in fitness center design, management, and consulting, we're here to shed light on the myriad advantages these facilities bring to employees and companies alike.
1. Holistic Health Enhancement: An onsite fitness center goes beyond mere treadmills and dumbbells. It provides employees with convenient access to expertly designed fitness programs tailored to their individual needs, fostering physical wellbeing. Regular exercise has been proven to boost immunity, lower stress levels, and enhance overall cardiovascular health. By making these facilities available, companies can empower their employees to lead healthier lives.
2. Convenience Redefined: The traditional excuse of not having enough time for exercise is rendered obsolete with onsite corporate fitness centers. Employees can seamlessly integrate workouts into their daily routines, either before or after work, during lunch breaks, or even during their downtime. This accessibility encourages consistent exercise habits, leading to long-term health improvements.
3. Social Connections and Team Bonding: Disconnection and it's impact on mental wellbeing is emerging as a top health risk in 2023; these centers offer a unique opportunity for colleagues to bond and build social connections. Group fitness classes, team challenges, and collaborative workouts not only promote physical health but also create a sense of camaraderie and unity among employees. Strengthening these social ties can enhance overall workplace satisfaction and productivity.
4. Transitioning Back to the Office Post-Covid: The pandemic prompted a massive shift towards remote work. As companies transition back to physical office spaces, corporate fitness centers can play a pivotal role in luring employees back. These centers provide a safe and controlled environment for exercise, alleviating concerns about crowded public gyms. Their presence reflects the company's commitment to employee wellbeing, which is a powerful incentive for employees to return to the office.
5. Talent Attraction and Retention: In the modern job market, attracting and retaining top talent requires more than just competitive salaries. Prospective employees are increasingly drawn to companies that prioritize their overall wellbeing. An onsite fitness center showcases a company's dedication to its employees' health, making it an attractive perk that can sway potential candidates and foster long-term loyalty.
6. Enhanced Productivity and Reduced Absenteeism: Regular exercise is linked to improved cognitive function and reduced stress. By encouraging employees to stay active, corporate fitness centers indirectly contribute to enhanced concentration, problem-solving abilities, and overall job performance. Additionally, healthier employees are less prone to illness, leading to fewer sick days and decreased absenteeism.
Onsite corporate fitness centers offer a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond physical health. From holistic wellbeing and convenience to social connection and talent attraction, these facilities serve as a testament to a company's commitment to its employees. As the corporate landscape evolves, organizations that prioritize employee wellbeing through initiatives like onsite fitness centers will undoubtedly reap the rewards of a happier, healthier, and more engaged workforce.
Learn More or Get Started with Corporate Fitness Center Design, Management and Consulting
Email Mike Olson at molson@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “2”) for more information or pricing.
Dana Wisniewski, MS, has worked with AdvantageHealth for 12 years. From designing wellness programs for CO's largest school district with over 12,000 employees to health coaching one-on-one, she specializes in cultivating a healthy, thriving workplace. She holds certifications in yoga teacher training, mediation teacher training, personal training and wellness coaching and has published three books.
Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.