Fitness in the Workplace - From Work to Workout

What are the benefits of Fitness Facilities in the Workplace?

Fitness facilities in the workplace offers numerous advantages for both employees and employers, transforming the workplace into a hub for wellness and productivity. As companies increasingly emphasise employee well-being, many recognise that investing in on-site fitness facilities can foster a healthier, more engaged, and motivated workforce.

“77% of employees would work out more if their employer provided an on-site gym.”

Workplaces with wellness programmes, including fitness facilities, report up to a 28% reduction in sick leave. Additionally, 61% of employees participating in wellness programmes make healthier lifestyle choices, and companies offering amenities like an office gym benefit by attracting and retaining top talent. With 77% of employees indicating they’d use an on-site gym if available, the demand for this benefit is clear.

Improved Employee Health and Well-being

Having access to an office gym supports employees in integrating fitness into their daily routines, leading to enhanced physical health and reduced stress. Exercise alleviates stress, improves mood, and combats fatigue, providing a productive outlet during the workday. Prioritising fitness options can also reduce sick days and lower healthcare costs, demonstrating an employer’s commitment to a wellness-oriented work environment.

Boosted Productivity and Focus

Physical activity not only benefits the body but sharpens the mind. Regular exercise increases energy levels and mental clarity, allowing employees to focus better on work tasks. After a workout or stretching session, employees often return to their desks with renewed energy, ready to tackle responsibilities with refreshed motivation. An office gym provides the ideal space for these revitalising breaks, helping to sustain high productivity levels.

Enhanced Company Culture and Morale

An office gym also contributes to a positive company culture, underscoring the importance of work-life balance and well-being. Fitness areas create opportunities for employees to connect over shared interests, whether through group workouts, wellness challenges, or casual conversations. This fosters team cohesion, builds community, and enhances morale. Employees feel valued when their employer invests in their happiness and well-being, creating a motivated workplace culture centred on mutual support and shared goals.

Key Design Elements for Workplace Fitness Facilities

A well-designed office gym goes beyond basic fitness equipment; it’s a carefully crafted space that meets diverse wellness needs and encourages employees to incorporate fitness into their daily routines. When designing an office gym, it’s crucial to consider a variety of equipment, flexible spaces, and practical amenities that promote both comfort and usability. Here are the key design elements to create a functional, inviting fitness area:

Space for Essential Equipment for a Comprehensive Workout

You want to allow space to for a wide selection of fitness equipment, supporting different exercise styles and fitness levels. Cardio machines, such as treadmills and stationary bikes, offer low-impact options for cardiovascular health and quick energy boosts. For strength training, including free weights, resistance bands, and functional training stations allows employees to customise their workouts and build endurance.

Flexible Spaces for Group Classes and Training

Multi-purpose rooms designed for group classes enhance the social and inclusive aspects of an office gym. Spaces for activities such as yoga, pilates, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) create an energising environment for employees to connect and stay motivated. These rooms should be open and adaptable, allowing mats, equipment, or seating to be easily rearranged for various activities. Group workout spaces provide a space for staff to bond and network and encourage a holistic approach to health in the workplace.

Convenient Amenities: Lockers, Showers, and Changing Rooms

Amenities like lockers, showers, and changing rooms are essential to a functional office gym, making it easy for employees to incorporate fitness into their day with minimal disruption. Lockers provide secure storage for personal items, while well-maintained showers and changing areas allow employees to freshen up before returning to work or heading into meetings. Thoughtfully designed amenities signal a commitment to employee convenience and comfort, making fitness more accessible and enjoyable for all.

Wellness Corners and Quiet Areas for Relaxation

In addition to active fitness zones, including wellness corners or quiet areas provides spaces for relaxation, meditation, and mental refreshment. These areas can feature comfortable seating, soft lighting, and calming décor to create a soothing environment for employees to recharge. Offering dedicated spaces for mindfulness and relaxation supports a balanced wellness experience, helping employees manage stress and maintain focus. This thoughtful mix of active and restorative spaces contributes to an office culture that values both physical fitness and mental well-being.

Design Considerations for Health & Fitness Areas

Designing a functional and appealing office gym requires careful attention to layout, safety, atmosphere, and inclusivity. By considering ergonomic principles, environmental comfort, and brand alignment, companies can create a wellness space that not only supports physical health but also resonates with employees on a cultural and personal level. Here are the key design elements to consider:

Ergonomics and Layout Planning

A well-planned layout is crucial to ensure smooth flow and safety in the fitness area. Equipment should be arranged with ample space around it, allowing employees to move comfortably and safely during workouts. Ergonomic design also means placing different workout zones strategically, grouping cardio machines, strength training equipment, and flexibility tools in designated areas to accommodate a variety of activities without congestion. Clear walkways, non-slip flooring, and accessible storage for mats and weights help maintain an organised, safe environment that encourages regular use.

Ventilation, Lighting, and Acoustics

The environmental quality of a fitness area has a significant impact on comfort and energy. Proper ventilation is essential to ensure fresh air circulation, preventing the space from becoming stuffy or overheated.

Natural lighting, where possible, enhances mood and energy, making the area more inviting and pleasant to use. When natural light is limited, LED lighting with adjustable brightness can simulate daylight and adapt to different times of the day. Acoustics are equally important, especially in high-energy areas where noise from equipment or group classes can be disruptive. Soundproofing materials, such as acoustic panels or noise-dampening flooring, help to create a balanced environment conducive to both active workouts and relaxation.

Incorporating Brand Identity

An office gym can be an extension of the company’s brand, with design choices reflecting the organisation’s culture and values. Thoughtful incorporation of the brand’s colour palette, logos, or motivational graphics can reinforce the company identity, making the gym feel like an integral part of the workplace rather than a separate facility.

For instance, a company known for innovation might choose bold, vibrant colours and modern design elements, while a more traditional brand might prefer calming tones and minimalist décor. This branding not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also strengthens employees’ connection to the company culture.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

A truly effective fitness area is designed to be accessible and inclusive for employees of all fitness levels and abilities. This includes choosing a range of equipment that suits different workout preferences and physical needs, such as low-impact machines for those with joint concerns or adjustable weights for various strength levels.

Layouts should consider accessibility, ensuring that all areas are easy to reach and navigate, including spaces for employees who may have mobility challenges. Inclusivity also means providing a welcoming, non-intimidating environment that encourages participation, with clear signage and accessible training materials to support employees in using the space confidently.

By integrating these design considerations, companies can create a health and fitness area that is not only functional but also inviting and aligned with the organisation’s values, fostering a workplace where all employees feel encouraged to prioritise wellness.