7 Ways to Promote Employee Health and Fitness

Imagine two companies that provide similar products and services. Both companies have highly intelligent, experienced employees. But Company A’s employees are constantly exhausted, unmotivated, and frustrated. Company B’s employees are cheerful, energetic, and genuinely passionate about their work.

Which company is more likely to have success in the long run?

Think about how many “Company A’s” are out there. A large number of people are stressed out by their jobs. If you believe it shouldn’t be this way, I agree! That’s why I’m excited that May is Global Employee Health and Fitness Month. 

When employees are physically and mentally healthy, they’re happier, less stressed, more energetic, and more productive. They’ll come to work with a greater sense of purpose, and they’ll feel valued and appreciated. If you want ideas for how to promote employee wellness, keep reading.

Employee wellness ideas

Partner up with gyms and other health-related services and in return your employees will get a discount  - Your team will really like this perk! This will encourage them to go to gyms and other places that make them healthier. Plus, it helps create a company culture that prioritizes wellness.

Organize charity walks/runs - Take a paid day or half-day off where you and your employees can attend a walk/run for charity. This is an amazing way to support a worthy cause while also helping your employees become healthier by giving them an opportunity to exercise.

Provide standing desks and ergonomic chairs - It’s been said that “sitting is the new smoking.” Sitting for long periods of time contributes to a variety of health problems, so provide standing desks for employees who want them. For employees who don’t want a standing desk, consider ergonomic chairs that can help them have less pain and better posture. 

Schedule longer lunch breaks - When lunch breaks are too short, employees are forced to eat in a rush. Longer lunch breaks allow employees to relax while they eat lunch, and they’ll also have time to stretch, go for a walk, or just step into a quiet area and do breathing exercises. 

Talk about mental health - Giving your employees access to mental health resources is important, and a great first step is simply talking to them. Let your employees know that it’s okay for them to come to you if mental health concerns are affecting their work. Make it clear that you’re open-minded and non-judgmental and that employees can feel safe with you.

Give mental health days - Sick days shouldn’t only be for physical health issues. Allow employees to have paid mental health days off, too. This lets employees calm their minds without the pressure of work. When they do come back to work, they’ll be rested and refreshed. 

Keep work-life balance in mind - Whether your team works in-person or remotely, work-life balance is essential. For in-person employees, try as much as possible to limit instances where employees work late. For remote workers, don’t pressure them to reply to all messages immediately, and remember to not expect replies outside of business hours.

Need help figuring it out?

Maybe you’d like to promote health and fitness for your employees but you’re not sure where to start. Every business is unique, so what works well for one business may not be good for another. That’s why it’s best to talk with someone who will get to know you and your business and give you customized solutions.

As a Corporate Stress Management Consultant, I’d love to work with you and help you find employee wellness solutions. My program Enrich Your Workplace has several options available, including Executive Leadership Team coaching, small group coaching, topical health masterclasses and wellness workshops.

Let’s work together to help your employees become healthier and happier! Book your 15-minute Enrich Your Workplace Consult today.