Employee Wellbeing and Engagement through Participation in Physical Activity and Health Programs - A Case Study on a Finnish Company

Abstract

Objectives

The main objectives of this research can be divided into four parts. Firstly, the goal is to find out what kind of wellness/fitness programs employees find valuable. Secondly, the research will examine if these programs affect positively on employees’ wellness. Thirdly, the general benefits of exercising in terms of employee wellbeing are going to be determined. The fourth and final objective is to find the connections between participating in sports, wellbeing and engagement in work.

Summary

A literature review was conducted to determine the connections between the advantages of physical activity, employee wellbeing and engagement through these two concepts combined. In the light of perceptions made from existing literature, a conceptual framework was created to illustrate the relationship between engagement, wellbeing and physical activity. After this, a qualitative, primary research was delivered to explore the views of employees regarding these three topics and how their own experiences and attitudes may reflect what has been found from the literature.

Conclusions

Physical activity does affect employee wellbeing positively, though it has downsides as well. Active lifestyle has impact on all physiological, physical and social wellbeing of an employee, from which the psychological impact seems to be the major one. The influence of physical activity and company-initiated health programs vary depending on individual characteristics and preferences. Despite the fact that the attitudes towards wellness programs are different among employees, health programs are still seen to have a positive effect on employee engagement.