Optimal physical fitness may be a prerequisite for some jobs, such as personal trainers or dance instructors. Although being in good shape may seem less important for many federal contractor roles that require a lot of desk work, businesses and employees alike can reap significant benefits from implementing activity-focused wellness programs into their benefits offerings.
Here is a look at how these programs can make a big difference for businesses seeking new ways to enhance their workforce’s productivity and health.
The Value of Physical Fitness in the Workplace
Many people believe that physical fitness is solely a pursuit related to personal health. While it is indeed an indispensable component of overall health, it is also a strategic asset for workplaces.
After all, fit employees generally find it easier to concentrate, have better energy levels, and enjoy a more positive attitude, which can foster a more effective working environment.
Overview of Activity-Focused Wellness Benefits
Activity-focused wellness benefits extend beyond traditional healthcare benefits to include a broad range of initiatives that inspire employees to engage in regular physical activity. This may include everything from organized sports teams to employee-sponsored gym memberships.
The Link Between Physical Fitness and Productivity
Mental agility has been linked to exercise, with physical activity helping to improve concentration, speed up learning, reduce stress, and boost memory, all of which contribute to better overall work performance.
Impact on Mental Health and Focus
Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress, which can result in sharper focus and better mental health. Employees with this enhanced mindset tend to be more engaged and productive.
Physical Health and Reduced Sick Days
Employees who are physically fit are less likely to get sick and miss work. They also tend to recover more quickly when they get sick, which means they take fewer sick days and provide a more dependable presence at work.
Assessing the Current State of Wellness Programs
Organizations with wellness programs should assess them carefully to determine how well they incorporate activities that drive physical fitness and where improvements can be made to promote it more successfully.
Common Features of Existing Programs
Existing wellness programs may share some features with activity-focused plans, which can serve as a foundation for a more comprehensive activity-focused wellness benefits offering.
Identifying Gaps in Physical Activity Initiatives
Even the most well-intentioned wellness programs need a comprehensive approach to physical fitness. Although federal contractors may provide their employees with wellness resources, many programs do not include measures to engage employees in regular physical activity actively.
Innovative Fitness Program Ideas for Federal Contractors
Federal contractors should consider implementing innovative fitness programs, such as on-site classes and facilities or virtual fitness challenges that make participation easy and fun.
On-Site Fitness Classes and Facilities
Federal contractors that provide on-site fitness facilities or classes often note increased participation among their workforce because exercise is more accessible and convenient. There is no need to stop at the gym after work; they can take classes right where they are, whether it’s during their lunch break or before or after their workday.
Virtual Fitness Challenges and Apps
Not every business has the facilities to offer classes on-site. Still, virtual challenges and fitness apps can also be effective ways of fostering a sense of friendly competition and community, encouraging workers to remain active outside of the workplace.
Encouraging Participation Through Incentives
Incentives can prove useful in promoting participation in the workforce. Recognition, extra time off, and financial rewards are all excellent ways to boost employee engagement. Many organizations report that aligning their incentives with their employees’ values makes a noticeable difference in participation.
Integrating Fitness into Daily Work Routines
Federal contracting is a fast-paced business that often requires long working hours and strict deadlines. For some businesses, integrating fitness into employees’ daily work routines is the most efficient way to achieve results.
Desk Exercises and Walking Meetings
There are many ways to integrate fitness into daily work routines. For example, desk exercises and standing desks with walking pads underneath them encourage employees to keep moving while working. Holding walking meetings rather than sitting at a conference table is another way to introduce more movement into the workday.
Promoting Active Commutes
Find ways to encourage employees to walk or bike to work. This will allow them to develop healthy habits and establish a dependable exercise routine while reducing the impact of their commute on the environment.
Measuring the Impact of Fitness Programs
Federal contractors can gauge the success of their fitness programs by establishing key performance indicators related to productivity, participation rates, and health outcomes. Regular feedback from employees can identify ways to improve the program so it remains responsive to their needs.
Start Your Journey to a Fitter Workforce with BBG
Are you a federal contractor looking to invest in the productivity and health of your workforce with activity-focused wellness programs? Contact the benefits experts at Business Benefits Group to customize your wellness benefits to promote physical fitness.