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In this article, OneFit and OpenUp – two companies active within the employee wellbeing space – will explore the multifaceted benefits of physical activity for enhanced physical health and mental and emotional resilience. So, let’s deepdive into this topic together and see why your company should motivate employees to get active!
[About OpenUp: OpenUp is a mental wellbeing platform that provides employees with quick and easy access to evidence-based solutions and professional guidance for their mental wellbeing, helping organisations foster a healthier, more engaged, and productive workforce.]
1. Reduced stress levels
Feeling overwhelmed by a hectic week full of meetings and a never-ending influx of emails and tasks? We recommend taking an exercise break! Physical activity is one of the most powerful stress relievers, as it stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood booster. It can truly transform your day and change your perspective on that daunting to-do list that’s been causing your anxiety to spike and your heart to race.
“Incorporating regular exercise into the workday can help employees decompress, manage stress more effectively, and maintain a positive outlook. Activities like yoga, boxing, or even a brisk walk can significantly reduce anxiety and improve mood. This is absolutely vital during times of high pressure and heavy workloads.”
2. Increased productivity and focus
But not only that, physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function, leading to better focus, enhanced memory, and increased productivity. Employees who engage in regular physical activity tend to have sharper concentration and better problem-solving skills. Skills that help employee wellbeing overall, because being able to flourish at work and meet expectations, increases the feeling of capability and happiness: true indicators of wellbeing.
“Physical activity, among other things like good sleep, nourishing nutrition, quality relaxation, social connections and purpose, are key in helping all the right “juices” flowing. It helps to balance neurotransmitters, hormones and other signal molecules. Movement should be an integral part of life, because we are made to move! And without movement, the body does not perform optimally: physically and mentally.“
3. Better sleep
We all know the feeling of not having slept enough, so you can probably imagine that sleep plays a significant role in overall wellbeing (at work). Did you know that regular physical activity can improve sleep patterns? Physical activity not only depletes energy, but also regulates the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Both OneFit and OpenUp recognize the importance of sleep in maintaining mental and physical health, and advocate for incorporating exercise into daily routines as a natural way to enhance sleep quality. Not only you will notice it, but your colleagues too. Because well rested employees are happy, focused and productive employees!
4. Strengthened immune system
Regular physical activity boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off illnesses more effectively. This is particularly important in maintaining a healthy workforce. Consistent physical activity can lead to fewer sick days, resulting in a more stable and secure team. After all, being sick isn’t pleasant for anyone—not for the individual (who feels ill, miserable, and possibly guilty for missing work), nor for the team (who may need to take on extra responsibilities). It’s a fine balance that impacts team wellbeing. So, especially during the darker and colder months of the year, it’s extra important to put emphasis on staying active and healthy together.
5. Enhanced social connections
Team exercise fosters social interaction and a sense of belonging among employees. Participating in physical activity together can strengthen workplace relationships and improve team cohesion, ultimately benefiting employee wellbeing.
“Sometimes tension can rise between colleagues, maybe because of missed deadlines, poor communication, or not having the same work or management styles. But having a blast together, and sharing moments outside of work, can make you feel more secure around each other. Actually liking your colleagues, and seeing another side to them (for instance by doing a workout) can mean loads for your perspective towards them. Resulting in better understanding and ultimately a better team vibe.“
6. Personal growth and self-esteem
Lasty, achieving fitness goals can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s completing a difficult set at the gym, grabbing a heavier weight, mastering a yoga pose, or simply sticking to a regular workout routine, these achievements contribute to personal growth and increased confidence. This will translate into other aspects of life as well, including your workplace.
Conclusion: benefits of physical activity for employee wellbeing
Incorporating exercise into the daily routines of employees offers numerous advantages, from reduced stress and increased productivity to better sleep and a stronger immune system. These benefits of physical activity can significantly enhance overall well-being and performance. Regular physical activity also fosters social connections and enhances personal growth, contributing to overall wellbeing and a more harmonious workplace environment.
At OneFit, we inspire people to lead active and healthy lives. Our platform offers access to a diverse range of sports and wellness activities that can help your team stay active, healthy, and engaged. From swimming and dancing, to workouts in the park or indoor cycling, OneFit makes it easy for employees to find the right workout to suit their needs. Check OneFit for Business to see what OneFit can do for your team.
OpenUp complements this by providing accessible and professional support for mental wellbeing (by certified psychologists and lifestyle experts), ensuring that employees have the resources they need to manage stress, improve focus, and achieve a better work-life balance.
So, after seeing these benefits of physical activity, is your company ready to take the next step in supporting your employees’ wellbeing? We are happy to help!
Rosan van der Tuuk
