Introduction
In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. Not only does it benefit our physical and mental well-being, but it also has significant implications for businesses. In this article, we will explore the importance of inspiring healthy lifestyles and the positive impact it can have on your workforce and your bottom line.
The Aging Workforce and Health Risks
As we age, we become more susceptible to age-related illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. While we can't reverse the aging process, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of these illnesses. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and regular exercise play a crucial role in maintaining good health.
Why does this matter to your business? The workforce is aging, with people retiring later and the government actively encouraging those who retired early to return to work. These experienced employees bring valuable skills and knowledge to organizations. However, it's essential to recognize that with age comes a higher risk of illness, which can lead to increased absenteeism rates.
Image: Acorns Case Study
The Healthiest Generation
Contrary to popular belief, age does not always equate to poor health. For instance, research suggests that millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, are considered the healthiest generation. This finding challenges the notion that being older means being less healthy.
Considering this, it's worth exploring whether millennials in your business can help inspire healthy lifestyles in younger generations. The earlier we adopt healthy choices, the more significant and long-lasting the positive effects on our physical health.
Negative Factors Hindering Healthy Lifestyles
While the aging workforce is a significant concern for employers, it's crucial to consider other factors that hinder the promotion of healthy lifestyles. The rising cost of living is one such factor, forcing many individuals to prioritize essentials over their physical health. In fact, 42% of Brits have had to cancel their gym memberships due to affordability issues.
This affordability crisis has direct consequences for businesses, leading to an increase in absenteeism rates. To address this issue, it's essential to understand the intersection of physical and mental health. Exercise not only enhances physical well-being but also supports mental well-being. By promoting exercise and making it accessible and affordable, businesses can reduce absenteeism and improve the overall well-being of their employees.
The Role of Corporate Gym Memberships
One effective way to inspire healthy lifestyles within the workforce is through corporate gym memberships. However, instead of labeling it as a "corporate" offering, we prefer to call it Gym & Fitness Discounts. We believe that exercise should be personal and inclusive.
By partnering with over 3,000 gyms, fitness centers, and digital fitness providers, we ensure that employees have access to a wide range of options. Whether they prefer traditional gym settings, outdoor activities, or digital workout programs, our goal is to make exercise affordable and accessible for everyone.
Empowering a Holistic Approach to Health
When we talk about healthy lifestyles, it's vital to remember that it encompasses more than just physical health. Mental and financial health are equally important aspects. Exercise, for instance, stimulates the production of endorphins, the "happy hormone," which boosts mental well-being.
Businesses should prioritize mental health as it is a leading cause of long-term sickness absence. By providing affordable exercise options, inspiring healthy lifestyles becomes a tool for reducing absenteeism rates and enhancing mental and physical health.
Menopause and Support
Inclusivity and support extend to women experiencing menopause. Menopause brings unique challenges, both mentally and physically, which can often lead to increased absenteeism rates. By offering expert support and affordable exercise opportunities, businesses can alleviate these challenges and retain talented women for longer.
Pluxee UK: Your Partner in Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles
Whether you're concerned about absenteeism rates, empowering your aging workforce, or simply understanding the importance of healthy living for your employees, Pluxee UK can help. Our Gym & Fitness Discounts program goes beyond a typical corporate gym membership. Contact us today and discover how we can make exercise affordable for your workforce, with up to 25% off annual memberships at some of the most renowned fitness establishments.
Sources: Bupa, Acutec, Business Insider
