Balancing Work and Wellbeing: How Exercise Boosts Productivity and Employee Happiness

Recognising the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance for employees, savvy business owners are implementing strategies to foster well-being and productivity within their teams. Beyond providing flexibility for personal responsibilities, promoting regular exercise has emerged as a crucial factor in keeping employees healthy, energised, and ready to tackle daily challenges.

A recent study featured in the Harvard Business Review sheds light on the direct link between exercise and increased productivity in the workplace. The study closely monitored 200 employees from the UK and China over a period of 10 days, tracking both self-reported and objective physical activity data through wearable devices.

The study's findings are quite intriguing:   Exercise's Impact on Wellbeing and Productivity: The study aligns with the World Health Organisation's objective to achieve a 15% reduction in global physical inactivity by 2030. Regular physical exercise sets in motion a series of benefits, known as "resource caravans," which significantly boost work performance the following day.   Here are the gains exercisers experience:   - Improved quality of sleep - Increased energy levels - Sharper focus and concentration - Enhanced motivation - Greater self-confidence in their abilities

These findings about balancing work and wellbeing are supported by our own clients’ findings, indicating that hybrid workers (those who split their time between company HQ, local workspaces, and home) are generally healthier, happier, and more productive. With reduced commuting time, employees have more opportunities for activities such as jogging, walking, cycling, or attending the gym. Additionally, flexible workspaces located closer to their homes allow for the possibility of walking or cycling to work, further incorporating exercise into their daily routines.  

The Benefits for Business Leaders: Encouraging employees to be more active extends beyond the potential productivity gains; it can transform businesses in various positive ways.   Enhanced Workforce Health and Wellbeing: The World Health Organisation emphasises the significance of regular physical activity in preventing serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Moreover, exercise serves as a powerful antidote for stress, anxiety, and depression, while also strengthening the immune system. As a result, businesses can expect reduced sick days and improved business continuity.   Positive Work Culture and Employee Retention: When business leaders genuinely demonstrate concern for their employees' wellbeing, the impact can be significant. A positive work culture fosters loyalty, enhances employee retention, and reduces the costs associated with high turnover rates

Strategies for Encouraging Employee Movement:  

1. Implement a Corporate Wellness Program: A well-designed corporate wellness program can effectively support employee health and wellbeing, making the business more attractive to top-notch candidates. These programs can offer a range of benefits, from discounted gym memberships to yoga or tai chi classes, access to therapists, and physio centres.  
2. Promote Healthier Commuting: Employers can actively encourage healthier commuting options to counteract sedentary habits. By promoting cycling, walking, or running to work and supporting initiatives like the "Cycle to Work" scheme, companies can facilitate active ways of commuting. Providing facilities such as showers and bike storage can further incentivise these choices.  
3. Offer Flexibility: By allowing some flexibility in work schedules, employers can create more opportunities for employees to engage in exercise. Forward-thinking companies may even permit employees to attend exercise classes during their workday, underscoring the importance of employee wellness.  
4. Embrace the Hybrid Work Model: Adopting a hybrid work model, combining days at local coworking spaces with time at the company headquarters, can significantly reduce commuting time. This extra time can then be utilised for exercise and meal preparation, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

Choose Solutions 4 Office for a Healthier Work Life: Solutions 4 Office designs and creates hybrid flexible workspaces that promote healthier work practices. The incorporation of wellness benefits further enhances the overall experience, ensuring that staff stay healthy, happy, and perform at their best. By creating a workplace culture that values well-being, businesses can lower health costs and foster a more involved, content, and committed team.  

In a world where work and life are interconnected, it is crucial for businesses to support a balanced approach. Opting for office spaces created by Solutions 4 Office not only provides great design but also contributes to a healthier, happier, and more productive team. Discover how Solutions 4 Office can help you today and prioritise the health and well-being of your team.