Australian managers believe fit workers are good for business and employers should pay for the privilege.

More than 95 per cent of respondents in last month’s Beilby Rewards survey acknowledged a direct correlation between personal fitness and productivity. A significant 53% said they believed employers should provide fitness programs and facilities for staff.

The subject has been the source of much debate in global management circles. While some claim there is no real link between fitness and productivity, others are convinced that healthy employees are better adjusted, use their time more efficiently and are better able to manage stress than their unfit counterparts. Improved fitness and health levels are also viewed as a vital way of reducing the high cost of sick leave and absenteeism.

Furthermore, the majority of respondents put their beliefs into practice with 80.5 per cent claiming to exercise at least once or twice a week.

There is a wealth of research, which indicates that employees who are fit and healthy often have greater energy and drive to reach their goals.  Many case studies have shown that employees who have embarked on fitness routines have found their energy renewed and a measurable increase in their overall productivity.

In today’s fast paced business world, a lack of physical fitness is generally the result of a lack of time. Corporate gymnasiums first started to appear in the 1970’s when some companies agreed to pick up the tab for staff sporting facilities and on-site trainers. This degree of employee commitment and amenity soon became a vital differentiator helping companies to attract top personnel and to be seen as an employer of choice.

Lack of motivation is also a significant barrier. Providing staff with free membership to a local gym can kill two birds with one stone – the free pass is an incentive to exercise and the convenient location makes it easier for time-stretched employees to attend.
 
For those who do not have access to formal exercise facilities, a small adjustment in routine can make a big difference. Health professionals advocate that 30 minutes exercise is all you need each day.  Break this into three 10 minute walks, by taking the stairs, walking an extra block to buy your lunch, or getting off the bus a few stops earlier, and you are well on the way.