‘A well-crafted exercise policy can significantly enhance company culture’

Exercise is great for promoting good health, both physically and mentally. However, there may be other workplace benefits, such as the enhancement of company culture.

One area where exercise can shine in a work setting is boosting morale and engagement. According to Elaine Jobson, managing director and chief executive at Jetts Australia, the benefits to employee wellbeing are huge.

“In my experience, integrating exercise into the workplace plays a pivotal role in boosting employee morale and engagement. Regular physical activity not only enhances overall wellbeing but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among team members,” said Ms Jobson.

“It serves as an outlet for stress, promoting a positive and energised atmosphere, which, in turn, contributes to less sickness, better cognitive function and higher employee satisfaction. Happy, healthy workers are the key ingredient to successful businesses.”

Creating an exercise plan at work could be the culture boost a business needs. The aim of the game is empowerment, said Ms Jobson, which should be promoted from leadership, down.

“Creating exercise initiatives that resonate with employees is key, and this starts by empowering employees to prioritise their wellbeing. Initiatives that blend fitness with fun tend to be most appealing, such as incorporating team challenges, themed workout sessions, or flexible fitness schedules, [which] allows employees to find joy in staying active,” she explained.

“A well-crafted exercise policy can significantly enhance company culture. On the switch side, it’s important for the executive team to lead by example. So, to all those managers who are workaholics, remember to lead by example and demonstrate to your team how to balance this effectively.”

Company culture is increasingly becoming a top consideration for employees. If exercise policy helps to foster this, then it seems like a win-win by creating happier workplaces filled with healthier staff.

Ms Jobson continued: “In today’s workforce, company culture holds immense importance for employees. A positive and inclusive culture not only attracts top talent but also contributes to job satisfaction and overall wellbeing. Employees seek workplaces where they feel valued, supported, and part of a collaborative and innovative community.”

“A strong company culture is a driving force for employee retention and organisational success in the contemporary professional landscape,” she concluded.

Ms Jobson isn’t alone on this view. HR Leader spoke to Dr Brett Lillie in August of last year, who agreed that exercise is important – not just for promoting a healthy lifestyle but also for increasing business efficiency.

“Movement ignites creativity [and] increases brain plasticity and capacity. You are supercharged, so ideas start to pop up, strategies can improve, you can find different avenues to solve problems. Movement allows you to utilise more of your brain power and fosters your innate ability to create,” said Dr Lillie.