Why I Get Paid to Work Out During Work
A couple posts back, I mentioned that my company does Crossfit. A couple people asked me about that, so I figured I'd dedicate this week's post to elaborating on this. And because everyone who does Crossfit HAS to talk about it at some point...it's kind of like being gluten-free. Or being in a cult.
So my company pays for us to go to Crossfit during work hours. Yes...you heard that right. We get to work out for free while getting paid - pretty awesome, right?
You don't have to do it, but come 4 o'clock (our typical workout hour), you can either stay at the office, or hit the gym right around the corner.
Don't get me wrong, there are things about Crossfit I'm not particularly wild about. Like for example, they have a power lifting move called the "snatch." First of all - ew. Who thought of that name? Second of all, the movement is completely impractical. For those of you who aren't part of the cult: the snatch is basically a movement where the bar is pulled from the floor to a locked-arms position in one continuous move. This would be useful, except in the snatch position your hands are supposed to be spread far apart. Kind of like this:
These movements are supposed to be functional in that you actually use them in your everyday life. But seriously?! Who would ever pick something up from the ground like this? It's totally absurd.
Anyway, I digress. Regardless of my feelings about the snatch, Crossfit has seriously boosted the vibe in our office, and for that, I am thankful. Here are a few reasons you should implement a designated group workout routine into your company culture:
1. It boosts energy. It's no secret that, in general, people who workout are healthier. It's also proven that those who have a regular workout regimen experience an increase in energy levels - something many people lack when the afternoon post-lunch coma hits.
2. It makes the day shorter. At least it makes it seem so. Incorporating a workout into your workday breaks it up nicely and makes your days less stressful.
3. It promotes team bonding. Even if you're not wild about your coworkers, you'll now have at least one thing in common with them. Plus, it helps to have someone to complain to after leg day.
4. You'll actually go. Come 4 o'clock, I feel super guilty if all my colleagues are headed to the gym and I'm skipping out with no excuse other than "not feeling like it." Motivation to hit the gym is much higher when you have others to go with. Plus, if your boss is paying for you to go, you kinda look like a jerk if you don't go.
5. You build self-confidence. Working out makes you feel better all around. You'll be leaner and stronger, and you'll look darn good in that bikini come beach season. And boom, your confidence is boosted.
The cool thing is all these things not only directly benefit your personal life but your professional life as well, which is exactly why your boss should sponsor your fitness and well-being.
Speaking of well-being, confidence, and just overall awesomeness - sign up for our upcoming Dale Carnegie Course here! (Subtle, right?!)
But seriously, suggest this to your boss. What's the worst that can happen?
Good luck!
Hannah