At TotalWellness, exercise is not limited to before or after working hours—it is actively encouraged throughout the day.

We all know how important it is to incorporate daily exercise into our lives for the benefit of our body and mind. However, statistics form Norwegian goverment reveal that the majority of adults fail to meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity. This is particularly true for office workers, who often struggle to find time for exercise amidst their busy schedules. Forbes made an article in 2019 about TotalWellness, a company that prioritizes employee well-being, has implemented a unique approach: paying employees to exercise during their workday.

The company provides a modest on-site gym and offers group exercise classes twice a week, giving employees ample opportunities to stay active. This initiative has received positive feedback from employees who appreciate the convenience and mental and physical benefits of exercising during their work breaks.

The decision to pay employees to exercise at work is driven by several key factors:

  • Social Connections: By providing an opportunity for colleagues to engage in physical activity together, companies foster healthy personal and professional relationships. Exercising with coworkers creates a supportive environment and encourages accountability, making it less likely for employees to skip workouts.

  • Stress Relief: Stress has detrimental effects on employee well-being and performance. Regular exercise has been proven to improve mental health by reducing cortisol levels (the body’s stress hormone) and releasing endorphins that promote relaxation. By incorporating exercise into the workday, employees have a chance to alleviate stress and enhance their overall well-being.

  • Heart Health:Regular exercise plays a vital role in promoting heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels (LDL), increasing good cholesterol levels (HDL), strengthening the heart muscle, and reducing blood pressure. Encouraging physical activity at work contributes to a healthier workforce and reduces the economic burden of cardiovascular diseases on employers..

In addition to these specific benefits, regular exercise offers numerous advantages that enhance employee productivity, energy levels, weight management, cognitive abilities, disease prevention, and immune system function. These positive outcomes have been supported by studies demonstrating increased creativity, improved memory and concentration, better time management, and higher work satisfaction among employees who exercise.

Considering the significant costs associated with obesity and chronic diseases, the investment in employee exercise programs is justified. By prioritizing the health and well-being of their workforce, companies can reduce healthcare expenses, increase productivity, minimize absenteeism, and foster a positive work environment.

TotalWellness demonstrates that a state-of-the-art gym is not necessary to encourage employees to be physically active. Even a small space equipped with essential exercise equipment can provide opportunities for employees to engage in a full-body workout. The benefits of improved health and work performance far outweigh the cost of paying employees to exercise.

In a society where sedentary lifestyles prevail, it is essential for companies to recognize the importance of physical activity and take proactive steps to promote a healthier workforce. By supporting employees in their pursuit of exercise and well-being, organizations can create a positive and thriving work environment that benefits both individuals and the company as a whole.

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