6 Key Advantages of Having Workplace Wellness Programs

workplace fitness center

 

A dedicated wellness program for the workplace is an excellent way to start if you want to strengthen your staff’s general health and well-being. Wellness programs help increase productivity, promote morale, and improve collaboration among employees. It also creates a company culture concerned with the health of its people. 

To determine whether or not establishing a wellness program is the right option for your organization, you need to learn about the benefits.

Here are six advantages of having workplace wellness programs in Canada:

1. Save on Health Care Costs

One of the most significant benefits of workplace wellness programs is substantial cost savings. Health care costs are currently high in Canada. In 2016, they were estimated to have reached $191 billion. Of this amount, $30 billion was paid for by employers. Estimates say that by 2020, health care costs will reach $210 billion.

With the rising health care costs, it is becoming more critical for employers to offer ways to reduce the costs. Workplace wellness programs help achieve this goal by improving employee health, which leads to lower health care costs in the long term. Studies have found that when assessing the cost benefits of workplace interventions, the initial costs are usually recouped within a year.

2. Improve Productivity

One of the most predictable benefits of workplace wellness programs is productivity improvement. This is because wellness programs reduce absenteeism. They also help increase worker health, which leads to increased productivity.

According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, more productive people are 31 percent less likely to miss work. This suggests that if absenteeism is cut down, productivity will go up.

3. Improve Morale

By improving employee health, you will also improve morale. When employees’ general health and well-being improve, this will positively impact the company’s culture. This culture would be more likely to encourage a healthy lifestyle among employees.

An analysis of the General Social Survey in Canada confirmed that employees who participated in workplace wellness programs were 13 percent more likely to be happy with their jobs.

4. Improve Staff Retention

Between 2008 and 2016, the average cost of replacing an employee was estimated to be between $15,000 and $25,000. For small companies, the cost of replacing an employee can be even higher.

Workplace wellness programs can reduce this burden. The results of wellness programs are usually noticed within a short period. Within the first year, these programs have reduced the likelihood of employees leaving a company by 27 percent. Over time, they can help increase staff retention by giving employers an edge over their competitors.

5. Improve Productivity and Communication

A worker’s productivity is usually measured based on their output. When employees are healthy and have a positive attitude, they are more likely to experience it., which leads to higher productivity levels.

Companies concerned about maximizing their production have a significant benefit of having a wellness program.

Moreover, a great workplace wellness program will improve communication among employees. The program will have to create an environment where employees can openly share their health concerns.

6. Meet WCGD Requirements

Canada’s WCGD (Workplace Condition and Health, Safety, and Welfare committees) requires employers to take all reasonable measures to provide the health and safety of their employees. A workplace wellness program can help you achieve this by improving the health and well-being of your employees.

Bring Fitness to Your Workplace!

Wellness programs are a great investment for your business. They can increase productivity, decrease absenteeism, and improve morale while saving your business thousands of dollars per year on healthcare costs. Implementing a wellness program can be a great way to improve your work culture and make your team happier, healthier, and more productive.

Let us be your first step toward becoming fit. It’s not just about your body. We also have experts on nutrition and weight training on staff to help you reach your physical and mental goals. You can also enroll in our fitness bootcamp in Vancouver. Contact us today!