Looking for happier employees and increased productivity? These are just two benefits of introducing a workplace fitness program to your veterinary practice. Wellbeing in the workplace is not only crucial for your team members’ individual health and happiness, but it is also crucial for your practice’s success.
What is a workplace fitness program?
Before we examine the benefits, let’s look at what a fitness program is? It can be as simple as providing a gym membership or access to a corporate wellness program. Or it can be more comprehensive, with on-site classes, personal training, and other amenities. The key is to find a program that fits the needs and budget of your practice.
What are the benefits of a workplace fitness program?
Introducing a workplace gym or fitness program can help create a culture of wellness at your practice, and has been shown to lead to multiple benefits for both employer and employee. Let’s look at these benefits.
Benefits for the success of the practice
- Increased productivity
Exercise increases energy levels, helping us focus on the most important work, caring for our patients. That means employees who are physically active are more productive at work. In fact, one study found that employees who exercise regularly are 9% more productive than those who don’t.
- Fewer sick days taken
When your employees are physically fit, they’re less likely to get sick. And that means fewer missed days at work. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular physical activity can reduce sick days by up to 20%.
- Improved morale
When employees are physically active, they tend to feel better about themselves and their work. This leads to increased team morale and a more positive work environment.
- Attracting top talent
Offering additional benefits such as a workplace fitness program, shows your practice cares about your employees’ work life balance and the future of their physical and mental health.
Benefits for employees
Besides the physical and mental health benefits introducing a workplace fitness program can offer employees, it can also lead to improved job satisfaction. Employees who have a workplace fitness program are more likely to be satisfied with their job. In fact, one study has found that employees who had access to a workplace fitness program were 16% more likely to be satisfied with their job than those who didn’t.
How to introduce a workplace fitness program
If you’re interested in introducing a program, there are a few things you need to consider.
Talk to your employees
- What would they like to see in a workplace fitness program?
- What type of activities are they interested in?
- Would they prefer on-site or off-site classes?
- What days and times would work best for them?
This will help you create a program that meets the needs of your employees.
Decide the best program to suit your team
Research local gyms or wellness programs that offer corporate discounts. This is a great way to get started without breaking the bank.
If you have the budget, consider hiring a certified personal trainer to lead on-site classes or provide one-on-one training. This is a great way to offer a comprehensive wellness program that meets the needs of all employees.
Offer incentives
Promote your fitness program to employees and give them incentives to participate. This could include offering free or discounted memberships, awarding prizes for participation, or giving employees paid time off to use the facility.
Evaluate the program regularly
Finally, make sure you evaluate the program regularly to ensure it is meeting the needs of your employees and your practice.
Workplace fitness programs are a great way to improve the health and productivity of your employees. By creating a culture of wellness, you can attract top talent, reduce sick days, and improve morale. And best of all, workplace fitness programs can be tailored to meet the needs of any practice.
