Promoting employee wellness is a top priority for organizations looking to enhance productivity, reduce healthcare costs, and foster a positive work environment. One effective way to encourage healthy behaviors among employees: host a company-wide fitness challenge.   

Challenges can inspire your team to make positive lifestyle changes, increase camaraderie among colleagues, and create a culture of wellness within your organization. In this blog post, we’ll walk through the key steps to make your next fitness challenge a success. 

A successful fitness challenge will vary depending on individual goals and preferences, but the most important aspect is the personal growth and progress made by each participant. The challenge should be a positive and enjoyable experience. It should be challenging but not overwhelming, and participants should feel supported, motivated, and inspired throughout the journey. 

Here are the best ways to host a fitness challenge: 

  • Set clear goals and objectives 
  • Plan the challenge itself 
  • Partner with local fitness businesses 
  • Form accountability teams 
  • Offer supporting resources 
  • Leverage technology 

Set clear goals and objectives 

Before launching a fitness challenge, define clear and measurable goals. Are you targeting physical activity, stress reduction, or a combination of factors? Establish specific objectives that align with the needs and interests of your team. Make sure the goals are realistic, attainable, and relevant to the overall well-being of your employees. 

Plan the challenge itself 

Design a range of engaging activities that encourage participation and cater to various interests and abilities. This might include a step count challenge, nutrition challenge, mindfulness sessions, team sports events, and fitness classes (more on that next!). Offer a variety of options to accommodate different preferences and provide opportunities for both individual and team participation. Consider incorporating branded clothing, incentives, and rewards to boost motivation. 

Partner with local fitness businesses 

Work with local gyms and studios to host events or flexible class offerings for employees. The ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program offers access to a variety of fitness and wellness businesses in your community (as well as the communities of your employees), so your team has the power to book the classes and appointments that best support their physical and mental
well-being during the challenge, and beyond.
 

Form accountability teams  

Divide participants into teams to provide support, accountability, and friendly encouragement throughout the challenge. Encourage cross-departmental collaboration and mix employees from different organizational levels. This will also encourage social connection and break down barriers within the company.  

Offer support and resources  

Offer resources and educational materials to holistically support participants during the challenge. Provide information on nutrition, stress management, and other relevant topics. Share tips, healthy recipes, on-the-go workout routines, and expert advice through newsletters, workshops, or your preferred online platform. Consider bringing in fitness and wellness professionals (trainers, nutritionists, etc.) to host information sessions or workshops throughout the challenge. 

Leverage technology 

Implement a digital platform or wellness app that allows participants to track their progress, access resources, and communicate with teammates. Gamify the challenge by incorporating leaderboards, badges, or rewards. Technology can facilitate real-time tracking, data analysis, and provide insights into the overall impact of the challenge.  

Evaluate and celebrate results 

After the challenge, gather feedback from participants and evaluate participation rates, individual and team progress, and overall improvements in health metrics (this is why setting upfront objectives is so important). Celebrate the achievements of individuals and teams and reward top performers. 

Implementing a fitness challenge can have a profound impact on your overall workplace culture. Not only does it create opportunities for your employees to improve their health, but it also creates opportunities for people to connect and interact in meaningful ways outside of their day-to-day work life. 

Ready to see how ClassPass can support your next fitness challenge? Contact us to learn more 

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