Energized Teams, Engaged Employees: The Case for Onsite Fitness

Written by: Elisa Denning, CFW Marketing and Fitness Expert

Diverse group of 5 people running on a blue and gray indoor track within an onsite fitness center.

Employee engagement is a cornerstone of organizational success, directly influencing productivity, retention, and company culture. At Corporate Fitness Works (CFW), we recognize the multifaceted approach required to foster engagement, and onsite fitness centers play a pivotal role. More than a wellness perk, fitness programs are essential to boosting morale, promoting teamwork, and strengthening employees' connection to their workplace.

Recent insights from Gallup’s 2024 State of the Global Workforce Report reveal that only 23% of employees globally are engaged in their work. The low engagement attributes to an estimated $8.9 trillion lost in global GDP. The U.S. and Canada outperform this global average, with 31% of employees engaged, signaling that workplaces in these regions are taking greater steps to create environments that drive employee enthusiasm and productivity. Yet, this leaves significant room for improvement, particularly for companies seeking to gain a competitive edge through a healthier, more engaged workforce.

The Connection Between Fitness and Engagement

The link between employee wellness and engagement is well-documented. According to Gallup, employees who feel cared for by their organization are 3.2 times more likely to be engaged in their work, highlighting the importance of workplace wellness programs. Onsite fitness centers provide employees with easy access to resources that promote physical and mental health, which in turn drives higher levels of engagement.

Physical activity has been proven to reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve overall well-being. When employees are given opportunities to exercise during the workday, they return to their tasks with renewed focus, energy, and a positive mindset. Onsite fitness programs also encourage social interaction and camaraderie, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork among employees.

Statistical Evidence: Fitness and Engagement Outcomes

Engaged employees are not just happier—they contribute significantly to business success. Gallup’s research shows that companies with engaged employees experience:

  • 23% higher profitability
  • 18% higher productivity
  • 78% lower absenteeism
  • 21% less turnover (among high turnover organizations) and
  • 51% less turnover (among low turnover organizations)

Employee engagement is directly impacted by workplace morale, leadership support, and retention. Corporate fitness and wellbeing benefits have a notable influence on these factors. A recent HUB Benefits Barometer Study found 54% of employees indicated morale to be the most improved metric from participating in a wellness program. The American Psychological Association highlighted that 91% of employees in organizations run by executives who support wellbeing initiatives feel more motivated to achieve their best at work. Of those employees, 89% are more likely to recommend their company as a good place to work. A 2022 Met Life study showed that employees who are holistically healthy are 53% more productive and 51% more likely to stay at their current job.

Tailored Fitness Solutions Fuel Workplace Engagement

For organizations striving to cultivate a highly engaged workforce, investing in onsite fitness programs is a strategic move. These programs not only support employees' physical health but also enhance their emotional and social well-being, key drivers of engagement. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported, companies can see lasting benefits in terms of retention, performance, and overall organizational success.

At CFW, we tailor our onsite fitness solutions to meet the unique needs of your workforce, offering everything from group fitness classes to personal training sessions. Investing in fitness programming is a tangible way to show your employees that their well-being matters, and the return on this investment is clear: healthier, more engaged, and more productive employees who are committed to helping your organization thrive. Connect with us today to set up a Discovery Call!

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