A positive workplace that supports health and wellness not only creates an enjoyable environment for employees, but also helps promote the success of the company.
Sandy Reimer, Director, Health + Fitness Centre at the YWCA Metro Vancouver, suggests that companies can promote happiness in the workplace by offering health and wellness programs to employees. The link between exercise and happiness has been well established and encouraging employees to take time to include exercise in their workday can contribute to a better mood and an improved sense of well-being.
“Whenever a corporation has a culture that instils exercising during the work day, it’s really great for their employees,” Reimer says. “When you’re fit, you’re stronger mentally and physically and can take care of all kinds of things. There is a positivity that spreads to other people.”
Healthier employees contribute to success
Companies see the benefit in greater productivity, lower absenteeism rates and lower health care costs. Funds generated from the Health + Fitness Centre go towards supporting the 43 programs the YWCA is running in the community to help single mothers and their children.
“There’s a lot more consciousness within corporations about giving back to their community,” Reimer says.
“Employees and organizations get the benefits of working out and membership supports the community, so you feel that sense of connection.”
Specialized programming meets corporate needs
The services at the Health + Fitness Centre on Hornby Street are tailored towards a corporate clientele. Members of the Health + Fitness Centre, from over 150 corporate groups, are able to choose from early morning programming, 45 minute classes scheduled to fit within lunch breaks and thoughtfully balanced exercise routines all helping to address sedentary behaviour resulting from prolonged sitting.
Everyday, the breezeway outside the YWCA Health + Fitness Centre and the streets around the downtown location fill with employees on their lunch break headed to take advantage of the Health + Fitness Centre facilities. This is a sight Reimer finds deeply rewarding.
“Fitness allows you to be the best that you can be. If you take care of your health, you are not only more productive but you are able to really shine in your job as well. I like to think that we’re here helping empower everybody else to be really great at what they do and what they bring to the world.”
Businesses and organizations can try out the offerings at the YWCA Health + Fitness Centre during a corporate open house June 25-29. Contact 604-895-5777.
