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111 Latest Employee Wellness Program Ideas & Examples (2024)

29 min read
Last Updated on 15 October, 2024
111 Latest Employee Wellness Program Ideas & Examples (2024)

In the heart of every thriving business lies its most valuable treasure - its workforce. Hence, the modern workplace is evolving beyond mere occupational safety. It is venturing into the wellness of its employees.

Are you working enough to improve wellness in the workplace?

If you're just getting started with employee health. Then, you're at the right place. We are here to discuss the best employee wellness program ideas that make a happy workplace.

What is an Employee Wellness Program?

What-is-the-Employee-Wellness-Program

Employee wellbeing is an essential factor in the workplace. According to Inc, businesses can expect an average ROI of $5.81 for every $1 spent on employee wellness. Apart from improving employee health, these programs serve some specific purposes like:

  • Improve employee engagement
  • Decrease absenteeism
  • Improve employee retention
  • Improve employee morale
  • Break monotony
  • Reduceemployee healthcare costs
  • Increase flexibility
  • Keep your employees motivated and productive
  • Assure ROI
  • Improve work-life balance

Suggested Read: Top 10 Benefits Of An Employee Wellness Program

111 Employee Wellness Program Ideas That Work Wonders

Vfit__111-Employee-Wellness-Program-Ideas-That-Work-Wonders-

Creating an efficient wellness program requires creativity and excellent strategies. Mere shout-out for health or pep talk on wellness benefits might fail to pump up your stressed employees. You have to be consistent and put effort into grabbing their commitments.

Allow space to engage in initiatives as you follow the wellness plan.

Below are the ten best employee wellness program ideas you could ever surf on the internet.

Categories

  • Fun Health and Fitness Ideas
  • Virtual Wellness Ideas
  • Campaign and Challenges
  • Food And Nutrition
  • Stress Management And Support
  • Team Building Activities
  • Growth Hack and Personal Development
  • Breaks And Retreats
  • Other Cool Wellness Perks
  • Out of the Box Wellness Ideas

We assure you that your employees will be thankful for helping them take baby steps in achieving health goals.

Suggested Read: What Do Employees Truly Want in a Wellness Program?

Fun Health and Fitness Ideas

All progress takes place outside the comfort zone. — Michael John Bobak

1. On-site Yoga Sessions

Vfit__On-site-Yoga-Sessions--

Offer on-site yoga sessions to enhance employee mood, performance, and creativity.

Ways to do it:

  • Build a dedicated yoga room with equipment and inspiring decor.
  • Hire a professional instructor to lead proper techniques.
  • Create a corporate yoga program to maximize participation and benefits.

2. Offer Two-Minute Stretch Breaks

Brief stretches rejuvenate employees working long hours at their laptops.

Ways to do it:

  • Backbend with palms on hips
  • Neck stretches side to side
  • Standing leg stretches using a stool

Research shows regular standing and stretching breaks boost productivity by up to 30% and employee engagement by up to 200%.

3. Fun Workout Routine Posters

Eye-catching motivational posters and images effectively remind employees to stay active and healthy.

Ways to do it:

  • Hang quality posters in high-visibility areas
  • Include inspirational quotes from celebrities
  • Print and display in the office gym.

According to the BMJ Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, placing motivational posters and signs around the office can improve healthy behaviors by up to 70%.

Download A Free HD Office Workout Poster

4. Invest In Workplace Ergonomics

Vfit__Invest-In-Workplace-Ergonomics-

Guiding employees in proper ergonomics prevents muscle and joint disorders. Proper workstation setup strengthens muscle groups and keeps employees healthy and productive.

Ways to do it:

  • Implement an ergonomics program
  • Provide ergonomic furniture like chairs with lumbar support, adjustable armrests and footrests

Research by CIEHF found that 87% of employees benefited because of the workplace ergonomics program.

Suggested Read: Workplace Ergonomics: Benefits And Ways To Improve It

5. Flu Shot Programs

Annual on-site or sponsored flu shots keep employees healthy and protected. These are a smart investment to reduce viruses and keep your workforce healthy and productive.

Ways to do it:

  • Arrange free on-site clinics or provide vouchers.
  • Create policies to prevent influenza exposure.
  • Promote the program via email, newsletter, and flyers - explain the dangers of flu and the convenience of workplace shots.

According to the CDC, Workplace flu shot programs can reduce infection rates by up to 48%. And, for every $1 spent on workplace flu shots, medical costs and absenteeism can be reduced by $3-$7.

6. Incredible Health and Wellness Vision Board

A vision board with inspiring images and quotes boosts employee accountability and goal progress. Vision boards keep employees focused on attaining their wellness objectives.

Ways to do it:

  • Gather relevant visuals and phrases
  • Craft an uplifting central message
  • Set realistic timeframes to track achievement

According to the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, employees who used vision boards reported a 42% increase in productivity after 6 months.

Suggested Read: 30 Health and Wellness Quotes to Inspire Wellness at the Workplace

7. Organize A Spectacular Health Fair

A fun fair builds excitement and awareness for new wellness initiatives. Wellness fairs engage and educate employees on vital health issues and company initiatives.

Ways to do it:

  • Offer interactive activities like massages and photo booths to keep people engaged during wait times
  • Get local health vendors, gyms, and insurance companies to sponsor and provide services
  • Incentivize employees with wellness products like yoga mats and water bottles
  • Pick a creative theme to market your fair and focus the activities

According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 76% of employees feel more positive about their employer after attending a workplace health fair.

Suggested Read: Employee Health Fair Ideas To Make Your Event A Great One

8. Walk And Talk Meetings

Walking meetings get employees moving and spark creative discussions. It boosts engagement, health, and productivity.

Ways to Do It:

  • Give advance notice so attendees can prepare
  • Keep groups small for optimal participation
  • Prepare an agenda to guide the walking discussion

9. Promote Corporate Wellness Apps

Corporate wellness apps equip organizations with tools and the latest technology. It motivates employees to establish and maintain healthy lifestyle choices. Wellness apps drive engagement by making programs accessible, organized, and easy to sustain.

For example, Vantage Fit, a mobile-first corporate wellness app, boosts employee physical activity.

According to Forbes, workplaces with wellness apps see gym attendance increase by 33% and daily average steps rise by 27%.

10. Standing Desks

Vfit__Standing-Desks-

Standing desks allow employees to alternate between sitting and standing, reducing back pain and discomfort from prolonged positions. Standing desks boost wellness and comfort while working.

Ways to Do It:

  • Purchase affordable, stylish options from Amazon or IKEA
  • Craft DIY standing desks on a budget

According to the BMC Public Health, standing desks reduce sedentary time at work by up to 66%.

11. Invest In Desks Bikes

Modern offices and workplaces have come a long way in recent years. After embracing ergonomic furniture, bike desks are a new wellness trend. It is fun and benefits employees' health in two ways:

  • It tones your calf muscles.
  • It enhances mood and productivity.

12. On-site Zumba Activities

-Onsite-Zumba-Activities

Zumba helps to tone the body structure and reduces the pressure on joints. It is the perfect way to get your workforce in shape.

Ways To Do It:

  • Provide online Zumba fitness sessions
  • Provide subscription to zumba Classes
  • Host Zumba sessions at the Office

According to the ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal, Zumba classes burn 400-600 calories per 40-minute session on average.

13. Offer Fitness Testing

Medical fitness testing is essential for employees in some industries, such as construction.

Ways To Do It:

  • Conduct Employee Fitness Assessments
  • Tie Up with Certified Fitness Organizations

According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, employees who get regular fitness assessments are 51% more likely to lower blood pressure and body fat.

14. Encourage Isometric Exercises

Isometric exercise is a simple and easy way to build strength, endurance, and healthy muscles.

These exercises need zero equipment. You can perform them in the gym, at home, at work, or on the road to progress toward your fitness goals.

Ways To Do It:

  • Start with a 7 – 10 second hold.
  • Perform isometric lunges, squats, and push-ups.

Virtual Wellness Ideas

The clock is ticking. Are you becoming the person you want to be? — Greg Plitt

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought the culture of adopting work from home policy. It keeps their employees safe and workflow intact.

Employers are trying hard to keep their employees active and productive. Even while they are working from home, here are some wellness program ideas for remote employees.

15. Offer Virtual Fitness Classes

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Virtual classes make workouts accessible anytime from anywhere. With virtual options, employees can maintain health and fitness wherever they work.

Ways To Do It:

  • Host live sessions via video conferencing tools
  • Provide subscriptions to fitness apps
  • Encourage employees to follow YouTube workout instructors

According to the University of Oregon Study, remote workers who had access to virtual workouts exercised 22% more minutes per week.

16. One on One Session with Nutritionists

Workplace nutritionists help employees overhaul diets, manage conditions, improve food choices, and discover healthier recipes. Workplace Nutrition Counselling helps employees get rid of their unhealthy eating habits.

Ways To Do It:

  • Book A Nutrition Consultant
  • Look Out for Websites That Offer Free Diet Counseling

According to the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, employees who consulted virtual nutritionists lost 6% more weight over 6 months than those without nutritional counseling.

17. Offer Tele-Health

Telehealth allows individuals to:

  • Diagnose and detect changes in their medical conditions,
  • Check vital health signs and
  • Book Remote consultations and treatment

18. Surprise Courier With Healthy Snack Boxes

Surprise-Courier-With-Healthy-Snack-Boxes

Healthy surprises include nutritious products such as snack boxes or a complete course meal. It is a unique gift idea that showcases the spirit of wellness and trust.

Ways To Do It:

  • Partner with a corporate snack supplier
  • Create signature healthy snack boxes

According to the Appetite Journal, healthy snack deliveries increased consumption of fruits and vegetables by as much as 39%.

19. Virtual Meeting Over Lunch

Video conferences over lunch foster connections and fun chats between remote employees. It keeps teams engaged and bonded over nutritious meals.

Ways To Do It:

  • Schedule regular virtual lunch dates
  • Spark conversations with diet tips and storytelling

According to the Internal Journal of Virtual Communities and Social Networking, remote workers who participate in virtual lunch meetings report 24% less social isolation.

20. Introduce Health and Fitness Apps

Vfit__Introduce-Health-And-Fitness-Apps

Boost employee wellbeing with digital health apps like Vantage Fit. This corporate wellness platform tracks steps, calories, and more while motivating with fitness points and redeemable gifts. The real-time dashboard gives HR visibility into workforce health.

According to JMIR Health, employees who provided fitness apps increased exercise by 37% and weight loss by 26% over a 2-month period.

21. Incentivize With Fitness Points

-Incentivize-With-Fitness-Points

To boost employee engagement, you can incentivize your wellness campaigns. Try to offer corporate incentives like discounts on brands. You can also use corporate apps like Vantage Perks for an easy process.

According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, wellness programs with fitness points and rewards report 86% greater participation rates.

22. Offer Virtual Meditation Sessions

Host team virtual meditation sessions via Zoom or Skype. Start with some breathing exercises and end with chants and prayers. You can also play any guided meditation playlist to enhance your experience.

According to Frontiers in Psychology, virtual meditation reduced employee stress by 11% more than in-person classes.

23. Organize Fun Games Sessions before Work

Interactive games lighten up remote routines and build connections. Virtual games spark joy and unite teams before the workday. Lighten up the regular work-from-home routine by playing some fun games.

Ways To Do It:

  • Share a personal photo and story
  • Play Pictionary and compare drawings
  • Describe images for others to sketch

According to Yale Psychological Research, casual online games before work are linked to 12% higher happiness levels throughout the workday.

24. Set Realizable Targets

Set-Realizable-Targets

Goal-setting drives performance when targets are measurable and achievable. Well-defined goals boost employee performance and business growth.

Ways To Do It:

  • Align with company objectives
  • Use the SMART goal framework
  • Be consistent in similar roles

According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, employees are up to 43% more successful at meeting SMART wellness goals than vague ones.

25. Set Clear Expectations

Communicate challenges ahead and inspect employee expectations often. Install progress checkpoints to tweak plans as needed. Transparency around goals and room for flexibility prevents frustration. Clear mutual expectations paired with empathy boosts team morale.

According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, wellness initiatives are adopted by 66% more employees when expectations are set clearly.

26. Arrange Dedicated Helpline Services

Even after ensuring measures to engage remote workers, managers should keep themselves flexible and available 24/7 to reach out to their valuable employees. Availing them on helpline platforms like call, email, or video conferencing. Attending to any queries can help them connect better with the institutions.

According to the Journal of Medical Internet Research, 24/7 employee support helplines decrease absenteeism by 19% in workers with emotional distress.

27. Uncompromised Breaks

This absence of structured breaks can leave employees feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of enduring extended work hours. So encouraging breaks without any terms and conditions is essential. It will give them room to unplug from work.

According to the Journal of Human Factors, employees who took 5-minute breaks during remote work reported 13% less fatigue.

28 Organize A Comedy Night Event

Arrange a comedy night for your employees as a stress buster. Ensure a friction-free experience for the employees to enjoy the performers.

According to the Journal of Holistic Healthcare, virtual comedy heightens employee mood by 11% and reduces stress by up to 38%.

29. Organize Motivational Workshops Over Zoom

Organize-Motivational-Workshops-Over-Zoom

Organize workshops that spark inspiration, all from the comfort of your screen. Transform each session into a journey of empowerment. This will guide your team towards their peak potential.

According to the Leadership and Organization Development Journal, virtual motivational seminars increased employee self-efficacy by 33%.

30. Invite a brilliant expert to teach breathing techniques

Teach mindful breathing to alleviate stress and pain. Conscious inhalations and exhalations boost focus, creativity, and inner peace.

According to the Behavior Research and Therapy Journal, employees who learned breathing techniques online saw anxiety decrease by 25% more than with in-person training.

Campaign and Challenges

Action is the foundational key to all success — Pablo Picasso

31. Cycle to Work Scheme

Vfit__Cycle-To-Work-Scheme

This challenge invites team members to forego driving to work in favor of biking. Ask employees to cycle or bike one day per week for six weeks. Not only is biking better for the environment, but it's also a great way to get moving and stay fit.

According to the International Journal of Obesity, regular bike commuters are up to 45% less likely to be overweight or obese.

32. Organize A 5 Km Run Challenge

Sign up teams to train for a 5K run, sparking healthy competition. Tracking progress and earning fitness points keeps employees motivated. Completing the 5K goal boosts cardiovascular health and forges bonds through sweat and grit.

According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, running just 5 kilometers per week may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 45%.

33. Workout Challenge

Vfit__Workout-Challenge-

Fostering ownership of wellness is key. Empower employees to set customized cardio, flexibility, and strength goals. Provide flexible schedules so teams can exercise and reap motivational rewards. Tailored targets help each person level up their physical health.

According to the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, employees participating in a month-long exercise challenge are 23% more likely to continue consistent workouts afterward.

34. Step It Up Challenge

Do your employees feel a lazy afternoon slump at work? Taking the stairs is the best way to pump up for the day. Invite employees to take the stairs instead of the elevator every day for 30 days.

Keep a chart at the top of the stairs where participants can put a checkmark every time they take the stairs. Reward wellness incentives or offer them a healthy lunch.

According to the Harvard Medical School, taking the stairs instead of the elevator burns up to 8 calories per flight.

35. Launch a "Quit Smoking" Campaign

Support employees looking to overcome smoking addictions with a personalized cessation program. Kicking the habit boosts health and slashes cancer risks. You can reward accomplishments with wellness incentives.

According to the Cochrane Library, comprehensive workplace smoking cessation programs can increase quit rates by over 34%.

36. Weight Loss Challenge

Vfit__Weight-Loss-Challenge

Launch a team weight loss challenge to ignite fitness goals. Collective spirit propels healthier lifestyles.

According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, workplace weight loss challenges encourage over 75% of participants to continue dieting and exercising after the challenge ends.

Suggested Read: Creating A Successful Office Weight Loss Challenge For Your Employees

37. Fundraising Campaign

Employee giving campaigns are a crucial part of many organizations' fundraising goals. They mobilize philanthropic efforts from inside out.

Ways To Do It:

  • Make the campaign fun and enriching.
  • Collaborate with a local NGO.
  • Let your employees promote a good cause.

According to America's Charities, corporate fundraising campaigns improve employee retention by up to 46%.

38. Join a Sport Challenge

Invite teams to join recreational leagues - from soccer to swimming. Company-sponsored jerseys showcase support. Sports cultivate joyful movement, tighten bonds, and boost energy levels.

According to the International Journal of Sports and Physical Education, employees who join workplace sports teams are 28% more likely to be satisfied with their jobs.

39. Meditation Challenge

Vfit__Meditation-Challenge-

Try challenging employees to incorporate meditation into their healthy lifestyles. You can also offer lunchtime yoga classes as an engaging event.

According to the Perceptual and Motor Skills Journal, meditation programs can decrease employee stress by up to 14% over 8 weeks.

40. Sports Leagues

Sports-Leagues

Having your employees participate in a company sports league creates a perfect bond and connection among your employees. It's also a fun way to exercise and relieve stress from work. Plus, your employees will meet new people within the company and make new friends.

According to the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, employee participation in company sports leagues takes 10% fewer sick leaves annually.

41. Start A Hobby

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Starting a new hobby can be so rewarding! It's a great way for employees to relieve stress, connect with others, and boost creativity outside work.

I recommend encouraging teams to take up a hobby they've always wanted to try - painting, playing an instrument, crafting, or birdwatching! You could subsidize startup costs or connect those with similar interests to motivate people.

According to the BMC Public Health, taking up hobbies outside of work can reduce employee burnout by up to 19%.

Food and Nutrition

It's never too late to change old habits. - Florence Griffith Joyner

42. Avail Virtual Canteen Services

With virtual canteens, employees can book their meals. They can order their preferred food items at the click of a button without the hassle of standing in queues. This way, employees can make the best use of their time, refuel, relax, and return to work with total productivity.

According to the Corporate Wellness Magazine, on-site healthy dining options increase employee participation in nutrition programs by 58%.

43. Observe Nutritional Month At Work

A healthy diet and adequate nutrition consumption ensure optimal growth and development. Good nutrition is a prerequisite for a healthy life, and it reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

According to the CDC, workplaces participating in nutrition-themed months have an 11% higher average daily produce consumption afterward.

44. Get Trendy with Smart Water Bottles

Encourage employees to calculate their daily water intake and stick to it. Staying hydrated is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Trendy tech bottles track intake, nudging employees to stay hydrated.

According to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, employees with smart water bottles drink up to 2 or more cups of water daily.

45. Design your Office CookBook

You can do the same cookbook in a friendly, inspirational way. Of course, you will need a creative person in the office who loves scrapbooking.

The idea is to make a fantastic go-to resource when people do not have any more ideas for their lunch for the following day.

According to the Saint Louis University Research Study, company cookbooks promote healthy eating behaviors in up to 69% of employees.

46. Install a Healthy Vending Machine

Satisfying, energizing snacks like salads, breakfast pots, and vegan treats make smart eating effortless. Nutritious vending machine choices curb cravings and boost workplace productivity.

According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, employers who offer healthy vending options report up to 26% higher participation in wellness programs.

47. Catchy Healthy Cooking Flyers and Brochures

Flyers and brochures come in handy when marketing your wellness initiatives. You can curate all the quick tips and ideas about healthy recipes and wellness FAQs.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Health And Wellness Marketing Ideas To Boost Employee Engagement

48. Organize a Healthy Veggie Week Contest

-Organize-A-Healthy-Veggie-Week-Contest

So many veggies have so many fantastic properties. Pick a super veggie every week and invite coworkers to share mouth-watering recipes.

49. Create A Healthy Recipe Board

Many office workers would like to indulge in healthy eating habits. But they don't have inspirational ideas about creating lunch. Create an idea board where everyone can put their favorite yummy healthy recipe.

50. Set Caffeine Intake Rules

Vfit__Set-Caffeine-Intake-Rules-

Food Standard for Australia and New Zealand Working Group has identified levels of caffeine that may induce anxiety. The threshold for adults is set at 210 mg. Conscious consumption fuels focus without the crash.

51. Celebrate Healthy Halloween Day

Treats result in a lot of sugary snacks that can cause cavities. Making a healthy pumpkin treat is one way to enjoy a healthier alternative. Invite your colleagues to share some of it at work and exchange recipes.

52. Celebrate Green St. Patrick's Day

You may not have many Irish coworkers, but celebrating Patrick's Day is still a friendly theme, especially since it inspires your employees to eat healthy.

Stress Management and Support

What hurts today makes you stronger tomorrow. — Jay Cutler

53. Create A Mental Health Tool Kit

The Mental Health Toolkit is not fixed but rather an ongoing discovery process. You can determine when and what works best for you and your employees through trial and error.

54. Virtual Recognition Softwares

Virtual-Recognition-Softwares

No feeling can compare to when the boss recognizes his employee for a good deed in front of everyone. This enthusiasm can help the employee perform his task more often, be on the leaderboard, and get recognition.

Vantage Circle is an example of a trustworthy and dedicated employee engagement platform. They provide customized cloud-based recognition services.

55. Encourage an Off-Day

Free time is essential for an excellent work-life balance. It is also the number one reason for employee wellness.

56. Initiate The EAP Program

Positive feedback does wonders for morale. So, celebrate all small victories and steps toward your employees' wellness goals. In this way, everybody can focus on the good things they did and the things they generally do well.

57. Recognize And Award The Fittest

Consider offering rewards that motivate your employees. It may not be about losing weight but also improving health metrics such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Collaborate with your team to determine the most inspiring and valuable prizes for your employees.

58. Create a Friendly Workplace

Workplace bullying is often associated with workplace violence and misconduct. It can affect work performance and wellbeing. Most times, these are not reported and, at times, not even recognized.

To avoid office bullying and mobbing, talk against bullying through training programs. Create channels for employee-employer communications for such issues.

59. Teach Good Sleeping Habits

Overworking often leads to sleep deprivation, negatively impacting productivity and health. Employees getting less than 7 hours of sleep might experience sluggishness and inefficiency. Encourage the adoption of beneficial sleep habits to enhance daily performance and wellbeing.

Team Building Activities

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success- Henry Ford

60. Host A Fun Quiz Session

Create a short, multiple-choice quiz on living a healthy lifestyle. Reward everyone who completes the examination by the deadline with exciting prizes. Announce the winner and all the correct answers in a news story. Highlight the most common questions to reinforce the right answers and correct myths.

61. Secret Santa Event

It is not hard to organize the Secret Santa around the office; it is always fun and exciting. It is one of those games that boosts morale and makes employees feel better about their work.

62. Spectacular office sports and dance competitions

Host fun office sports and dance competitions. These interactive activities allow everyone to participate. Employees can choose their preferred games for the tournament and compete individually or in teams. Consider interdepartmental matches, too.

63. Mind-bending Word of the Day Challenge

Enhance vocabulary and memory by launching a daily word challenge via email. Encourage quick responses with guesses; the first correct answer wins. Choose words related to your business, enriching employee knowledge and fostering interaction and engagement.

65. Organize a Charity Race or a Fun Run Program

Organise-a-charity-race-or-a-fun-run-program

Charity races and fun runs like this can keep your employees fit. But this will also give them the satisfaction of contributing to a significant cause. A fun run is a close race usually geared towards raising money and awareness for a good reason.

Growth Hack and Personal Development

All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them. — Walt Disney

65. Online Degrees And Certifications

Offer your employees some certifications or courses while they are doing their job. This way, employees will enhance their academic profile. It also benefits your organization without losing talent for higher education.

You can refer to some reputed organizations like Coursera, Udemy, or edX. They offer different courses from standard universities and reputed educators.

66. Provide Professional Training

Provide-Professional-Training

Empower your team with professional training opportunities for career development and workplace skills. Collaborate with experts to design sessions aligned with your objectives. This fosters a culture of growth and continuous improvement within your organization.

According to the Journal of Workplace Learning, employees who participate in virtual training sessions show a 39% greater increase in skill development than those who train in person.

67. Cool Employee Wellness Newsletters

Stay ahead with the latest in workplace wellness by curating vibrant newsletters. Pack it with fresh ideas for a healthier, more efficient environment. Share these insights through eco-friendly emails. You can draw endless wellness inspiration from Meg's Pinterest Board.

According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, Email newsletters about wellness are associated with a 13% increase in wellbeing program engagement.

68. Prioritize Personal Goals

Encourage employees to pursue fitness at their own pace, without pressure, allowing them to choose activities that align with their preferences and comfort zones. Emphasize the importance of overall health, good nutrition, and wellbeing,

According to PLOS One, employees are 28% more likely to achieve their health goals if they are self-selected rather than company mandated.

69. Wonderful New Year's employee wellness resolutions

New Year's resolutions are fun and exciting but very difficult to maintain. Keeping the enthusiasm going is tough, but it's not impossible. Inspire your employees to make wellness resolutions for the New Year. Reward those who endure, with days off work.

According to the American Journal of Health Behavior, employees who posted their wellness resolutions at work were 24% more likely to achieve them.

70. Enriching Language Courses

Embracing multilingualism not only enhances business capabilities but also offers significant health benefits. Learning additional languages can delay the onset of dementia and sharpen focus. It also enhances problem-solving abilities, memory, and attention to detail.

According to the Frontiers in Psychology, learning a new language in a virtual classroom lowers stress by 18% on average.

Breaks and Retreats

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it. — Henry David Thoreau

71. Organize Your Own Wellness Retreat

It's a positive space, getting the staff to relax in the lap of nature. You can plan a visit to your company's outhouse or book a resort on weekends.

According to Gallup, employees are 31% more likely to be engaged after attending a company-sponsored wellness retreat.

72. Hiking and Trekking

You can organize a thrilling weekend getaway with hiking and trekking. Plan a day to go to a nearby hill station for a trek. You can provide them with all the safety equipment to avoid accidents.

73. Get In Hold Of Corporate Wellness Retreat Services

Leverage professional services to organize your corporate wellness retreats seamlessly. These experts take the stress out of planning, offering various retreat options. For example- Yoga, Culinary, and Company-focused retreats ensure a rejuvenating experience for your team.

Suggested Read: 5 Best Reasons To Offer Corporate Wellness Retreat To Your Employee

Suggested Read: Best Corporate Wellness Vendors: Types, Programs, Apps and More

74. Team Picnic

Organizing a picnic day helps your employees rejuvenate from their everyday work lives.

Ways To Do It:

  • You can ask your employees to take the lead in choosing a picnic spot.
  • Ask employees to bring only healthy food or organize a cook-on-spot event.
  • Play some fun team-building activities.

According to the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, participating in occasional outdoor activities with coworkers can reduce stress by 22%.

75. Go Camping

Go-Camping

Organizing a camping trip to a nearby hill or a lake on a clear day is a great way to celebrate weekends. Make sure to check the weather conditions and take necessary precautions. You can also host a musical night or play fun sports to make the most of it.

According to the University of Michigan Study, spending time outdoors and camping can improve cognitive performance by up to 50%.

76. Make time for Retreat Along with Conferences

Attending corporate seminars is one common aspect of working for a company. But following a whole day's conference can become tiresome at times. You can spice up the moment with a fun wellness retreat. You can go sightseeing in the local area for the rest of the day.

According to the Journal of Convention & Event Tourism, combining business conferences with wellness activities increases employee satisfaction with the trip by up to 65%.

Other Cool Wellness Perks

Action is the foundational key to all success.— Pablo Picasso.

77. Give Away Trendy Fitness Bracelets

In the era of lifestyle innovation, wearable fitness techs like smartwatches and bands are all the rage. These devices monitor daily activities, promoting health awareness. Gifting your employees with stylish fitness bracelets aligns with the latest wellness trends.

According to the JMIR, employees given wearable fitness trackers increased exercise levels by 27% over 6 months.

78. Offer Nap Pods

Google and Uber recognize the importance of power naps to increase productivity. A relaxed mind and body keep you charged throughout the day.

Allow your employees to power nap by having nap pods inside your office/company. PodStyle offers a variety of pod designs, with intriguing workplace case studies showcasing their effectiveness.

According to the Journal of Sleep Research, employees given access to digital nap pods reported a 15% increase in work performance.

79. Flexible work hours

By letting employees adopt flexible work schedules, businesses can reduce workplace stress and burnout. This helps in encouraging long-term commitment and satisfaction among their workforce.

This initiative benefits employees and enhances the company's competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent.

80. Create A Zen Office

Zen office is a workplace culture that promotes Zen principles of mindfulness and tranquility. It forms a part of the modern workplace that suffices the lack of employee wellbeing.

Ways To Do It:

  • Frame Zen quotes
  • Place ornamental stones and plants all over the office.
  • Renovate the office space with Zen decor.

According to the Environment and Behavior Journal, implementing elements of Zen space in remote offices reduces employee anxiety by up to 21%.

81. Introduce Productivity Techniques

Social media can easily become a time sink, hindering productivity. Encourage employees to take breaks from screens and focus on pending tasks. Introduce them to social media timers, helping them manage their time effectively.

Popular apps like In a Moment, Off time, and Hour Hand can assist in setting time limits and improving work-life balance.

According to the International Journal of Information Management, using social media timers at work is linked to 11% higher productivity.

82. Offer Company Discounts

Employers offer corporate discounts to attract and retain valuable employees. Vantage Circle's employee discount platform allows employees exclusive deals and offers.

According to the Compensation and Benefits Review Journal, ongoing corporate perks and discounts increased employee retention by 32%.

83. On-site Day Care Services

Onsite-Day-Care-Services-1

New parents might find trouble focusing on their work once they rejoin the office. Help alleviate this stress by offering on-site daycare services. High-quality childcare ensures peace of mind for your employees and allows them to focus on their work confidently.

According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, employers who offered virtual childcare assistance saw employee absenteeism decrease by 29%.

84. Offer Spa and Massages

Treat your top performers to soothing spa experiences with occasional massage coupons. Take it a step further by bringing a massage therapist on-site to offer complimentary 15-minute massages to all staff weekly.

According to the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, employees who received monthly virtual massage vouchers were 15% less likely to call out sick.

85. Free Gym Membership

Healthier, happier employees are more engaged and productive. They take fewer sick days, reporting a higher quality of life. Partner with local gyms for discounted memberships or provide virtual training subscriptions for employees who are uncomfortable exercising in public.

According to Health Promotion International, providing online gym memberships resulted in a 43% average increase in weekly exercise.

86. Celebrate your Employee Birthdays

Making birthdays special shows you care. Send personalized emails at the start of the month to plan celebrations. Gift promotional items on each birthday. Small tokens of appreciation make work more meaningful.

According to the Journal of Management and Organization, company-wide virtual birthday celebrations increase employee happiness by 18%.

87. Celebrate Harmony Day

Encourage diversity and inclusion by celebrating Harmony Day. Make interactions fun by celebrating the cultural day at the office.

According to the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Journal, inclusive virtual cultural programs improve employee perceptions of equity and belonging by up to 37%.

88. Practice Team Gratitude Day

Thanking or praising someone makes them feel good and makes us feel even better. If it's reciprocated, it spreads happiness and positivity to others. Boost your employee's moods with gratitude lessons. Attempt to develop an optimistic culture among employees.

According to Applied Psychology, remote gratitude exercises increase peer-to-peer support at work by up to 22%.

89. Karaoke or Office Theme Parties

Rent a karaoke machine or organize a costume party. It will make your coworkers relax and get to know each other in different situations. Moreover, they will have fun together, which is always great. Give your employees a chance to brag about the fun they have in their workplace.

According to the MIT Sloan Management Review, 82% of employees feel more connected after virtual social activities like karaoke.

90. Throw a Healthy Christmas Potluck Party

This Christmas, organize a holiday potluck party for your employees. Ask everyone to bring a healthy, organic dish to share. It's a great way to enjoy the season without overindulging.

According to the Preventive Medicine Reports, virtual healthy holiday parties motivate 66% of employees to make smarter nutritional choices.

91. Play Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts make for engaging team-building activities. Dividing employees into teams to complete analytical and strategic tasks. It helps them practice collaboration while boosting office morale at the same time.

According to the Creativity Research Journal, remote scavenger hunts increase employee creativity by nearly 14%.

92. Personal Finance Workshops

Offer personal finance workshops to help employees make smart money decisions and not be trapped by their financial situations. Well-managed personal finances boost peace of mind and quality of life.

According to the Financial Services Review Journal, employees who attended online financial planning workshops improved credit scores by an average of 23%.

93. Offer Social Media Time Counter

People waste valuable time on social media. It reduces the free time your employees already lack. Thus, show them the benefits of social media timers that can improve their quality of life.

94. Nutritious Holiday Recipe Haul

It is tough to say no to holiday food. So, you can at least try to make it healthier. Bring your most nutritious recipes to work and swap them with your employees.

95. Create an Organic Office Garden

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A New York Times article pointed out an emerging trend of company gardens in the business world. Tech giants like Google are following these trends. Growing fresh produce fosters team spirit and a sense of community. Your office garden can double as a relaxing employee perk space.

96. Improve Your Team Communication

Clear and open communication is key for any successful team. Communication plays a vital role in the organization. Free contact with coworkers or managers reduces stress.

Ways To Do It:

  • Make time for one-on-one sessions with employees to address any issues directly.
  • And be sure to listen when team members want to talk actively.
  • Keeping communication channels open reduces stress.

97. Conduct Health Risk Assessments

A corporate health risk assessment or HRA evaluates employee health risks. It keeps records of blood pressure, nutrition, stress, sleep, and mental health.

Ways To Do It:

  • Prepare well-defined questions.
  • Ask your employees to fill in all their biometrics information.
  • You can partner with a local clinic to offer free medical check-ups.

Suggested Read: A Definitive Guide On The Workplace Health Risk Assessments

98. Carry Out a Pulse Survey

Employees like to receive regular feedback about their job performance. Carrying out a pulse survey creates employee loyalty for your company.

Ways To Do It:

  • Conduct performance appraisals.
  • Set realistic objectives and employee expectations.
  • Share some constructive, meaningful, and timely feedback about their performance.
  • Give your employees some space to improve.
  • Take the help of technology to create your forms. You can use Google Forms and design your pulse survey questions.
  • You can level up and offer software like Vantage Pulse.

99. Create an Office Memory Wall

Pictures speak a thousand words. Your employees would love to relish all the memories spent within your office.

Ways To Do It:

  • Ask everyone to write down their favorite office memory on a sticky note.
  • Advise them to take turns by sharing and adding their message on the wall.
  • You can include pictures to make it even more personalized.

100. Offer Corporate Tai-chi Class

Practicing mindfulness and experiencing tranquility is all that your busy corporate employees need. Offer corporate tai-chi classes. It is an ancient Chinese martial art that offers flexibility. It gives employees something interesting to self-reflect on while working.

101. Fun Corporate Cooking Classes

Cooking classes are trendy among corporate teams. It's a skill everyone loves to do, as it helps showcase their cooking talents.

Ways to Do It:

  • Add your employees to teams and assign them to make a healthy dish.
  • You can organize a cooking contest with these teams to enhance the thrill.
  • Try offering unique dining experiences by visiting a countryside place.

Out of the Box Wellness Ideas

102. On-site Health Clinics

Having on-site health clinics can make it more convenient for employees to get preventative care and address minor health concerns. This allows them to get treatment without taking significant time off work.

103. On-site Massages

Offering chair massages or having massage therapists come on-site is a great way to help employees de-stress. Even short 15-20 minute massages can relax muscles, boost mood, and increase productivity.

104. Green Challenges

Friendly "green" challenges can get the office excited about sustainability. See who can bike or take public transit to work the most days a month. Or reduce company-wide paper usage.

105. The Biggest Loser Challenge

The popular weight loss show has inspired workplace fitness competitions nationwide. Employees form teams and compete to lose the most weight for prizes and bragging rights.

106. Art and Craft Workshops

Art workshops like painting nights or pottery classes are fun, creative, team-building activities that unite employees in a relaxed setting.

According to the Creativity Research Journal, 82% of employees feel more creative, relaxed, and open to learning after virtual art workshops.

107. Celebrate Wellness Wednesday

Dedicate Wednesdays to wellness by offering yoga, handing out healthy snacks, encouraging walking meetings, or allowing workout clothes at work.

According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, consistent virtual Wellness Wednesdays increase employee participation in programs by 51%.

108. Volunteer Opportunities

Enable employees to volunteer at charities of their choice during work hours. Giving back is beneficial for morale and the community.

According to the International Journal of Volunteer Administration, employees who volunteer remotely encourage 21% higher job satisfaction.

109. Community Service Days

Organize a day where the entire company goes out to do service projects like cleaning up parks, providing food for the unprivileged, etc.

According to the Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management Journal, employees participating in virtual community service activities reduce turnover intentions by 17%.

110. Skill-building Workshops

Hold free workshops on useful work skills like public speaking, project management software, customer service, and more. This facilitates continuous learning.

According to the European Journal of Training and Development, virtual professional development workshops improved productivity by 14%.

111. Retirement Planning

Bring in financial advisors to offer one-on-one retirement consultations. Many employees don't spend enough time planning their financial futures.

According to the Benefits Quarterly Journal, employees who used online retirement planning tools increased savings rates by 19%.

Bonus: Deploy an Employee Wellness Software

The wellbeing of employees is an integral aspect of a thriving organization. However, managing employee wellness programs can often prove challenging. The good news is that this task can become significantly more manageable with the right tools. One highly effective solution is integrating employee wellness software like Vantage Fit.

This software offers a multifaceted approach to employee wellbeing, incorporating key features like tracking your steps, completing challenges, logging activities, gamification, incentivization, and much more.

Furthermore, gamification incentives can turn wellness activities into exciting challenges, motivating employees to participate actively and make positive health changes.

Integrating Wellness into the Business Fabric

Forward-thinking companies recognize the far-reaching impact of employee wellness and are weaving it into their business fabric. This holistic approach extends its influence on areas such as:

  • Employee recognition,
  • Sales performance,
  • Workplace safety,
  • Customer service quality,
  • Absenteeism rates, and
  • The promotion of core company values.

Regardless of company size, prioritizing wellness attracts top talent in a competitive market. It reduces turnover by making employees feel valued. Happier, healthier staff are more productive, innovative, and collaborative, creating a positive work environment.

Conclusion

A successful employee wellness program requires creativity, commitment, and understanding of your workforce. While it takes effort to build, the returns are invaluable. Companies that invest in holistic wellbeing programs empower their greatest asset - their people - to thrive and reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the types of wellness programs?

There are several types of employee wellness programs focusing on different areas of health:

  • Physical wellness (fitness challenges, flu shots)
  • Mental wellness (meditation, counseling)
  • Preventative care (health screenings, smoking cessation)
  • Chronic disease management (diabetes education)
  • Nutrition (healthy eating challenges)
  • Financial wellness (401k planning)
  • Work-life balance (stress management, on-site childcare)

2. What are the examples of wellness programs in the workplace?

Common examples of workplace wellness programs include fitness challenges, health fairs, flu shot clinics, free nutritious snacks, standing desks, mental health apps, EAP services, and more.

3. How do we promote wellness in the workplace?

Strategies to promote wellness at work include role modeling healthy behavior, offering incentives, making participation fun through friendly competition, integrating wellness into company culture and policies, leveraging technology, and emphasizing holistic health.

4. What are some wellness program ideas for small businesses?

Wellness program ideas for small businesses include:

  • Free healthy snacks.
  • Walking meetings.
  • Standing desks.
  • Mental health breaks.
  • Providing water bottles.
  • Introducing stretching breaks.
  • Ordering ergonomic equipment and signing up for virtual fitness classes.

5. How to create an employee wellness program?

The key steps to creating an employee wellness program are establishing goals, surveying staff needs and interests, developing initiatives, incentivizing participation, promoting the program, leading by example, tracking data, and iterating based on feedback.

This article is written by Ritushree R Singh, who is a content writer and marketer at Vantage Circle. Besides having a curious heart with an avid taste for music, she relishes traveling to new places and exploring different cultures whenever possible. To get in touch, reach out to editor@vantagecircle.com

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