How do you convince managers to adopt sport in the workplace?

Sport in the workplace is no longer just a trend, but a real lever for performance and well-being. Yet convincing managers to invest in such a policy can prove difficult. Here are some key arguments, hard-hitting figures and inspiring examples to help decision-makers take the plunge.

1. The concrete benefits of corporate sport

Productivity improvement

Employees who engage in regular physical activity are 6 to 9% more productive at work than those who don't(CCI).by encouraging sport, companies benefit from better concentration and fewer errors.

Reducing absenteeism

According to the FFSE, practising sport reduces absenteeism by 32%, which in turn leads to lower occupational health costs. In fact, by reducing the risk of chronic illnesses such as musculoskeletal disorders and stress, companies are seeing a significant reduction in work stoppages.

Employee well-being and commitment

According to 89% of employees, a company that offers sport to its staff is concerned about their well-being, and 91% of employees who take part in sport at work report an improvement in their mental health(Baromètre2024 du sport en entreprise). A happy employee is a more loyal and motivated employee.

2. Responding to managers' objections

"Corporate sport costs too much".

Investing in sport is above all a profitable investment. There are several solutions to suit all budgets:

• Set up partnerships with local gyms
• Set up a dedicated area with a few simple pieces of equipment (yoga mats, weights, exercise bikes)
• Organize group sessions with a coach once a week

"Our employees don't have the time".

Encouraging physical activity doesn't mean imposing long, demanding workouts. Adapted formats are available:

• Short sessions of 15 to 30 minutes during the lunch break
• Integrating sports and fun challenges with SPART
• Encouraging the use of stairs or bicycles for short journeys

To find out more, read our article on how to motivate your employees to take up sport, which suggests effective strategies for engaging your employees.

"We're not a sports company

Corporate sport doesn't mean turning employees into athletes. Above all, it's about promoting an active lifestyle and uniting teams around a common project.

3. How to initiate an effective sports policy?

Step 1: Identify employee needs

A simple survey can be used to identify expectations and adapt the offer (yoga, muscle strengthening, running, etc.).

Step 2: Get top management on board

Presenting concrete case studies helps to convince managers of the long-term benefits.

Step 3: Implement progressive actions

Rather than implementing a massive policy, it's better to start with simple initiatives and adjust them according to employee feedback.

Step 4: Communicate and promote the initiative

Creating an internal challenge, offering rewards and sharing the results all help to keep employees involved.

Find out here about the mistakes to be avoided when introducing sports in the workplace.

Adopting sport in the workplace is a winning investment for managers and employees alike. By improving productivity, reducing absenteeism and boosting employee commitment, this policy helps create a healthier, more attractive working environment. Managers therefore have every interest in committing to this approach in order to build a more effective and fulfilling company.

By Candice Lhomme