Published on:

21 February 2025

Updated on:

21 February 2025

Read time:

2 minutes

Natalie Burdett-Wilson

Senior Designer

Iyna Fiaz

Group People Director

The integration of fitness facilities within office spaces has become more than just a luxury amenity, it's a strategic investment in employee wellbeing and productivity.

As businesses increasingly recognise the vital connection between physical health and workplace performance, the concept of having a gym in the office has evolved from a nice-to-have perk to a fantastic opportunity to improve workplaces.

The rising importance of workplace wellness

Statistics show that workplace stress and anxiety account for over 17 million lost working days annually in the UK alone, costing the economy billions.

As a result, forward-thinking companies are investing in comprehensive wellness solutions, with office gyms leading the charge in promoting employee health and satisfaction.

Regular physical activity not only reduces stress but also enhances cognitive function and creativity. Research indicates that 88% of employees now view wellbeing as just as important as their salary. Moreover, an impressive 86% of UK workers say they would consider leaving a company that fails to prioritise employee wellbeing.

Why every office needs a gym

The advantages of an office gym extend to both employers and employees. Companies often see increased employee retention and an enhanced company culture, leading to improved team collaboration and a competitive advantage in recruitment.

Employees benefit from the convenience and time savings of having fitness facilities at their workplace.

They save money on external gym memberships while enjoying better work-life balance. The proximity of fitness facilities often leads to improved physical and mental health, resulting in enhanced job satisfaction and greater workplace engagement.

The key to successful office gym design lies in understanding how people naturally move through and interact with spaces. We're not just placing equipment in a room – we're creating an experience that seamlessly integrates with the workday. Through careful consideration of flow, lighting, and acoustics, we can transform even the most challenging spaces into inviting wellness environments that employees actually want to use. It's about making fitness feel like a natural extension of the workplace rather than a separate destination.

Natalie Burdett-Wilson, Senior Designer

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Office gym or external gym memberships?

When comparing office gyms to external gym memberships, several clear benefits stand out.

Office gyms offer immediate accessibility without additional commute time, promoting a built-in community support system. They can be customised to employee needs and often prove more cost-effective in the long term, while allowing greater control over hygiene and maintenance standards.

However, there are important considerations to weigh, such as initial setup costs, space requirements, and ongoing maintenance needs. Organisations must also manage peak usage times effectively and consider professional staffing requirements to ensure proper facility management and safety.

Key elements of office gym design

Creating an effective gym office design requires careful consideration of several factors.

Space Optimisation

  • Utilise natural light through strategic window placement
  • Incorporate multi-functional areas that can adapt to different activities
  • Create clear zones for various exercise types (cardio, strength, stretching)
  • Install mirrors to create the illusion of larger spaces and assist with proper form

Equipment Selection

  • Include adjustable and space-efficient equipment suitable for various fitness levels
  • Consider sustainable and eco-friendly options
  • Prioritise quality over quantity for longevity and user experience

Atmosphere and Aesthetics

  • Implement proper ventilation and temperature control
  • Use motivational imagery and branding elements
  • Install appropriate flooring for different activities
  • Ensure adequate soundproofing

When organisations invest in employee wellbeing through thoughtfully designed fitness spaces, we see improved collaboration, increased employee satisfaction, and a more energised workforce. It's about creating an environment where wellness becomes an integral part of the workday rather than an afterthought.

Iyna Fiaz, Group People Director

Maximising small spaces

Limited space shouldn’t be a barrier to implementing effective workplace fitness solutions.

Multi-purpose areas can be created through convertible meeting rooms that double as yoga studios and flexible office furniture arrangements that accommodate various activities.

Smart time-sharing systems can be implemented through scheduled class times and organised group sessions, ensuring optimal use of available space.

Vertical space utilisation becomes crucial in smaller offices, with solutions including wall-mounted equipment and compact, foldable furniture that can be easily stored when not in use. These creative approaches allow even the smallest offices to maintain effective fitness facilities.

Creating inclusive wellness areas

Promote employees health and happiness

Understanding that not everyone's fitness journey looks the same, modern office gym design often incorporates alternative spaces for various activities.

This means creating spaces that accommodate both beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts, while providing options for both group and individual activities.

The integration of yoga in the workplace has gained particular prominence, offering numerous benefits. Regular yoga practice helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity while addressing common office-related physical issues like poor posture and muscle tension. The accessibility of yoga makes it an excellent option for employees of all fitness levels, requiring minimal equipment while providing maximum benefits.

Regular feedback collection and program adjustment ensure the facility continues to meet evolving employee needs.

The integration of fitness facilities within the workplace represents a significant step toward creating healthier, more productive work environments.

Whether through a fully-equipped office gym or a flexible wellness space supporting yoga in the workplace, the benefits extend far beyond physical health.

By carefully considering design elements, space utilisation, and inclusivity, businesses can create fitness spaces that truly serve their employees' needs while contributing to a positive workplace culture.

Promote health and happiness in your workplace

As we continue to reshape our understanding of workplace wellness, the investment in office fitness facilities stands as a testament to the evolving relationship between work and wellbeing.

The future of workplace design lies in creating spaces that not only facilitate productivity but also actively promote the health and happiness of those who use them.

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Meet the Authors

An accomplished designer, with great knowledge and creative expertise, Natalie has worked across a broad range of sectors and brings a high level of experience and a varied skill set to her work as a result.

As Group People Director, Iyna is a strategic leader focused on talent acquisition, development, and engagement. She excels at building high-performing teams and inclusive cultures. Her passion for empowering employees enables her to foster an environment where people thrive. Iyna is dedicated to cultivating a workplace where employees feel valued, inspired, and empowered.