I’ll preface this article by saying that I would never classify myself as a “runner.” However, co-workers tend to have a way of talking you into doing things that you probably wouldn’t normally consider. Which is exactly what happened when one day a co-worker shouted over her cubicle, “hey, we should all do a color run.” The Twin Cities ColorVibe 5k would be the second run that I would complete with my co-workers during my time at JETPUBS.
Training for this event involved many a dash around the office neighborhood over lunch or pairing up for a quick run after office hours. The truth was that we spent far more time training together than actually completing the race together. Maybe you already work out with your co-workers, or maybe the thought of running in circles with your co-workers is a terrifying thought, but take a minute to consider some of the possible outcomes of joining your co-workers for a trip to the gym.
Active employees are typically more productive in the workplace. Research has shown that employees displayed clearer thinking and higher levels of concentration if they partook in a regular exercise routine. Exercise is a challenge, so finally completing a run after weeks of training feels like a huge accomplishment. Acknowledging achievements like this often encourages employees to consider taking on other challenges presented by their jobs.
Then there’s the whole team-building aspect. Working out together not only encourages communication and collaboration, but dedicating time to training and seeing a run through shows commitment to your fitness level and to your relationships with your co-workers. Not to mention, getting doused with color while completing winding 3.1 mile course in the pouring rain is a refreshingly fun experience!
I’d encourage you to consider signing up for a walk or run with some of your co-workers. Who knows what kinds of colorful outcomes will result in your life and your workplace!
– Lauren Olson, JETPUBS Inc
Sources: http://smallbusiness.chron.com/benefits-team-building-corporate-setting-23262.html
http://www.europeancorporatewellbeing.com/5-reasons-to-encourage-employees-to-get-fit/
(To learn more about my first JETPUBS run that I completed with my co-workers, follow this link: http://jetpubs2.suiportal.com/news/team-jetpubs-competes-in-door-county-fall-50/)