More companies today are choosing to include an office gym as part of their workplace setup, and it's not just a trend. Creating a dedicated space for employee wellness offers long-term advantages for both businesses and their teams. It can boost productivity, enhance the work environment, and even reduce overall costs.
Research has shown that having a gym at work can lead to better outcomes for both employees and employers.
Given how exercise is proven to reduce stress and lower the risk of chronic illnesses, it’s worth asking: why not bring fitness into the office? In this post, we’ll explore the key benefits of workplace gyms and share practical tips for designing one that suits your team’s needs.
5 Ways a Workplace Gym Can Boost Employee Fitness
Eliminates the “No Time” Excuse
We’ve all said it: “I’ll work out after work.” But once you’ve battled traffic, cooked dinner, and handled evening chores, the last thing on your mind is exercise. While some people stay committed no matter what, many struggle to stick to a fitness routine. An on-site gym changes that by removing common barriers, like travel time and busy schedules. It becomes easier for employees to squeeze in a quick workout before their shift, during lunch, or right after work. Even better? Having a workout buddy at the office makes it more fun and motivating.
Builds Better Workplace Connections
Giving employees a space to unwind and connect outside of formal meetings can lead to stronger team relationships. A workplace gym provides that environment. Whether coworkers bond over a group workout or share fitness goals, these interactions can foster trust and teamwork. It also sends a clear message: the company values their wellbeing beyond the desk.
Lowers Healthcare Expenses
Healthy employees mean fewer sick days and lower healthcare costs. Regular exercise improves everything from heart health to joint mobility, and it plays a big role in preventing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Even just 20 minutes of daily movement can make a difference. When companies invest in wellness by offering an on-site gym, they support a healthier, more resilient workforce and potentially reduce long-term medical costs.
Helps Manage Stress
Stress is a productivity killer, and it can lead to burnout, absenteeism, and health issues. Exercise, however, is one of the best natural stress relievers. Physical activity reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and boosts endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that help us relax and feel more focused. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks during tough days, employees can release tension and boost their mood with a quick gym session.
Improves Focus and Performance
The benefits of exercise go far beyond physical health. Studies show it sharpens mental function, boosts memory, and improves creativity. One Harvard study even linked regular exercise to better brain performance overall. Meanwhile, research from Leeds Metropolitan University found that employees who used the gym during work hours felt more productive, managed their time better, and were more satisfied with their jobs.
5 Tips for Designing a Corporate Gym That Employees Will Love
Thinking about building a gym in your workplace? That’s a great move for employee wellbeing and morale. But before jumping into gym equipment purchases, it’s important to plan a space that truly meets your team’s needs. Here are five practical tips to help you design a corporate gym that works.
1. Consider the Space You Have
Start by assessing how much space you can dedicate to the gym. Are you working with a small unused office or something larger, like an open loft or empty meeting room? The size of the area will influence what type of equipment you can include and how the layout should look.
Make sure the gym doesn’t feel crowded; leave enough room between machines and stations so people can move comfortably and safely. Even in smaller spaces, smart planning can go a long way.
2. Choose the Right Equipment
When it comes to gym gear, go for a mix of strength and cardio equipment. Think treadmills, bikes, resistance bands, dumbbells, and multifunctional machines. It’s also a good idea to choose equipment that can support various training levels, from complete beginners to fitness enthusiasts.
If you're tight on space, consider strength stations. These compact, free-weight-based setups offer versatility in as little as 10–15 square meters and can be tailored to individual training needs while also supporting safe social distancing.
3. Know Your Users
Your gym should reflect your team. Are most employees fitness-savvy, or are they just getting started? Do they prefer solo workouts or group training sessions? A good mix of options can help ensure the space serves everyone.
If you plan to offer group activities, like team workouts or wellness classes, designate an area where people can gather comfortably. Encouraging team fitness can boost morale and double as a fun team-building tool.
4. Don’t Overlook Flooring and Sound Control
Gym flooring needs to be durable, low-maintenance, and able to absorb impact from dropped weights. Rubber tiles or mats are great choices. If the gym is located on an upper floor or close to quiet areas, consider additional soundproofing.
Platforms like the Eleiko SVR are specifically designed to absorb noise and vibration, making heavy lifting less disruptive in office settings.
5. Reflect Your Company Culture
Your gym design is another chance to showcase your brand’s values. Whether it’s with colours, motivational wall art, or a sleek modern layout, make sure the space feels like a part of your workplace.
Better yet, ask your employees for input. What do they want in a gym? Involving them in the process not only builds excitement but also ensures you’re creating a space they’ll use and enjoy.
With the right planning, your office gym can become a true asset to your company, supporting healthier habits, stronger teams, and a more engaged workplace.
Conclusion
Designing a corporate gym is more than just adding equipment to a spare room; it’s about creating a wellness space that aligns with your company’s values and meets the needs of your team. By considering the size of the space, choosing the right equipment, understanding your users, planning for noise and safety, and incorporating your brand identity, you can build a gym that employees actually look forward to using. A well-designed workplace gym doesn’t just support physical health; it fosters stronger teams, boosts morale, and creates a more energised, productive work environment.
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