Corporate fitness can be a great way to improve the health and well-being of your employees. But how do you ensure that your corporate fitness program really has an impact? In this blog, we look at the key tips for setting up a successful fitness program so that your company can benefit from a vital and energetic team.

1. Large and varied offering: a suitable solution for everyone

The importance of a broad range of sports:

When you introduce corporate fitness, it is crucial that the offering is diverse enough for all your employees, regardless of where they are located. The reality is that the local gym chain is not sufficient for everyone, especially for employees who live or work further away from their workplace, or who do not prefer exercising in a gym at all. Therefore, it is essential to collaborate with multiple fitness chains and sports facilities, both close to and farther from the work locations. This ensures that all your employees have access to the benefits of corporate fitness, regardless of their location.

2. Diversity in offering: more than just the gym

Fitness is not for everyone:

Research shows that only about 17% of the Dutch population regularly goes to the gym. This means that a significant portion of your employees may be looking for other ways to stay active. By offering a diverse range of sports and activities, you give your employees the freedom to choose an option that fits their interests and lifestyle.

Flexibility and freedom:

Consider offering not only traditional gym memberships but also options such as memberships at local sports clubs, such as football or tennis clubs. Activities like yoga, swimming, or even walking can also be supported through a wellness budget. This budget can allow employees to finance walking gear or chosen sports classes. This way, they can work on their health in their own way, significantly increasing engagement and satisfaction.

3. Financial incentives: encourage sports and movement

Provide your team with a net employer contribution:

An effective way to motivate your employees to become active is by offering a net employer contribution specifically intended for vitality purposes. This contribution can be used for sports memberships, sports clothing, or other activities that promote health. This is a direct financial incentive that helps employees engage in their well-being actively.

Offer discounts through the cafeteria model and the work-related costs scheme:

Another possibility is to offer sports and wellness activities at a reduced rate via the cafeteria model or the work-related costs scheme. This allows employees to allocate part of their gross salary for sports and wellness purposes, making it financially attractive for them to participate in these activities.

Collective discount agreements:

Additionally, as an employer, you can arrange collective discounts at gyms, wellness centers, or sports clubs. This enables your employees to access sports options at a favorable price.

4. Communication and engagement: make your offering visible

Encouraging engagement:

Ensure that your employees are well informed about the options available and encourage them to participate. Regular communication about the benefits of corporate fitness, success stories from colleagues, and updates on enhancements in the benefits offering can stimulate participation. 

5. Measure and optimize: ensure long-term success

Monitoring and adjusting:

The success of your corporate fitness program depends on continuous evaluation and optimization. Keep track of how many employees participate and what their feedback is. Are there elements of the offering that are more popular than others? Are there sports or activities you could add to engage more employees? By regularly seeking feedback and adjusting your program, you ensure that it continues to meet the needs of your employees and optimally contributes to their well-being.

Conclusion

Introducing corporate fitness can be a great way to promote the well-being of your employees, but it does require a thoughtful approach. By creating a wide and varied offering, providing flexibility and freedom through a wellness budget, and introducing financial incentives, you can ensure that your corporate fitness program becomes a lasting success. This way, you invest not only in the health of your employees but also in a productive and positive work environment.

About Alleo

At Alleo, we understand the importance of employee well-being like no other. With the largest offering in wellness in the Netherlands, we make our services available to over 100,000 people. By choosing Alleo, you give your employees access to a comprehensive and flexible wellness program that meets their individual needs and preferences. Together, we create a healthier and happier work environment.

Read here how The Next Label successfully integrated their vitality offering into HR policy with the help of Alleo.