Sweatworking sounds odd or at least gross, I know. But it’s born out of the current, global fitness craze and as far as weird corporate trends go, this one sounds like it’s working.
Let me explain: Everybody is on the fitness train. There’s a deluge of information out there about how physically exerting yourself improves not only your physical wellbeing but also your mental state of mind, to make everyone want to sign up at their closest gym.
However, a very common excuse for not working out is because people don’t have time. Of course, the answer is that you simply must make time. But between work and family responsibility many people find this difficult to do. But now you can rest assured that your physical health will be looked after during your working day because of sweatworking.
Keeping fit is now a thing professionals do and love
This fitness craze has spilled over into the work environment. With the past couple of years seeing many companies making an effort by offering healthier work environment options it’s no wonder that actual exercise activities have made it into the workplace. And, sweatworking is basically networking while building up a sweat.
Networking, at the best of times, is not everybody’s cup of tea
Not everyone enjoys heading out to socialise and talk business with strangers no matter how important it is. However, if you’re engaged in an activity while talking business it tends to become easier to connect and there’s less pressure to form an immediate bond.
This might be why many head out to the golf course to seal a major deal?
Sweatworking is bringing people together
This sweatworking trend generally sees a group of likeminded professionals taking part in activities such as yoga, spinning, barre classes or functional fitness training. Throughout the activity, they’re able to casually introduce themselves and enjoy some active fun together.
If the sweatworking event is being hosted in-house for the employees of a specific company then this could turn into a real bonding session. And, imagine doing a spinning session while being presented the latest company financials and stats. I know I would certainly remain more awake.
In fact, sweatworking has become the new way of doing any type of meeting – client meet and greets, brainstorming sessions, deal closing gatherings and staff meetings.
It’s a no-brainer that sweatworking is really popular among those who’ve tried it
Sweatworking is going mainstream. Which is not surprising considering there’s a direct link between physical exercise and optimal brain function. In fact, it’s said that if you exercise regularly you can begin to think faster and concentrate longer.
Sweatworking hasn’t quite hit the South African business place yet but we’re a pretty active nation. So we might soon see companies taking a similar approach to how they conduct their meetings.
Already, some South African companies offer gym memberships as part of their employee benefits or even have a gym room on their premises.
There might be moans and groans to begin with
Let’s face it, while this idea might not tickle everyone’s fancy immediately, most will come around to the idea of it. It gets you out of the office, into some fresh air and gets the blood moving. And, of course, it helps with the networking aspect of business which is crucial.
Both business owners and employees could do with more networking. Next time you want to talk business forget a fancy restaurant and rather grab your mountain bikes and hit a short, easy trail. After all, no pain, no gain.