Do your employees grumble about not having enough time to make it to the gym? Do they talk about wanting to feel better at work? Many employees want to be healthy, but simply lack the motivation and encouragement they need to get started. Small business owners also want their employees to be healthy. Healthy employees call in sick to work less, have more energy and maintain better focus throughout the workday. As a small business owner, you can easily inspire healthy living in the workplace that benefits both your business and your team. Here are a few ways you can encourage your team to be healthier today.

START A RUNNING CLUB

Teams that work out together, work better together. Start a running club in your small business as a healthy team building option. Your employees, regardless of fitness level, can get together to be active while also building their work relationships. Team members encourage each other to do their best while working out together. This translates into more encouragement and positivity in the workplace, which benefits your business as a whole.

GIVE LONGER LUNCH BREAKS FOR GYM-GOERS

If your team does not seem interested in working out together, try giving longer lunch breaks to those who do want to go to the gym. This helps get your employees blood pumping, and allows them to be more energetic and focused for work in the afternoon. When your small business gives incentives for people to stay healthy, your team and your business benefit.

INVEST IN ERGONOMIC FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES

Ergonomic office furniture has come a long way and now it is more affordable for small businesses. By making a small investment in ergonomic chairs for employees who suffer from back pain, or a standing desk for employees who hate sitting all day, your team will feel better on the job. As a small business owner, you may benefit. Employees who feel better at work generally take fewer days off because of aches and pains. In addition, they become more loyal to you as an employer because of the investment you make in their health.

ENCOURAGE HEALTHIER EATING AROUND THE OFFICE

Many small businesses bring in donuts on Fridays, or stock break rooms with unhealthy snacks. Encouraging proper eating habits to keep employees well-nourished can be as easy as changing up the treats in the break room. Instead of donuts, bring in a fruit basket. Instead of chips, provide fresh vegetables to nibble on. Making small changes such as this helps your employees get the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy at work.

When your company invests in the health and overall well-being of your employees, you generate loyalty that cannot be beaten. The only caveat to this is that a little Excel tracking might be required. Most employees will be very grateful for this change in workplace lifestyle, but some might take it as an excuse to work less, so just make sure you keep an eye on them. What other ways have you encouraged healthy living into your office?