Fostering the Point32Health team spirit: the benefits of sports in the workplace
As we get older, finding new and enticing ways to get active can be a challenge. Many people cycle through spin classes, bootcamps, gym memberships and the like looking for an outlet that helps them stay fit. Not to mention the fact that finding time to fit exercise into our daily routines is already a challenge.
At Point32Health, we are always looking for ways to offer benefits that solve colleague’s pain points and promote their total health and well-being – including their physical fitness. That’s why we proudly offer a series of recreational sports leagues throughout the year, hosted on our campus and facilitated by our Fitness Center Team, operated by Premise Health.
“At Point32Health, our rec leagues are a key component of our holistic well-being strategy,” said Karen Ryan, director of colleague well-being. “These leagues not only encourage our colleagues to stay physically active but also offer an excellent way to reduce stress. Additionally, they help foster connections among colleagues, building a strong and supportive community.”
In 2024 alone, we have hosted basketball, pickleball, spring and fall softball, golf and spring soccer leagues for colleagues. To date, there have been 105 unique colleague participants in our sports leagues, and the fall soccer and pickleball leagues will surely help increase that number.
Benefits of sports leagues at work
A recent study from the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University found that “people who participated in recreational group sports saw important reductions in weight, percentage of body fat, blood pressure, and lipid levels, and large increases in aerobic fitness, which can translate into reduced risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.” And with nearly 40 million Americans living with diabetes, the upside of rec sports leagues can’t be overstated.
“Employers have a unique opportunity to support the well-being of their employees. This creates a positive impact that extends to our Point32Health colleagues, household members, members, and the broader community,” added Ryan.
Beyond just physical health, there are numerous other benefits for colleagues who participate in our recreational sports leagues, including:
- Stress Relief: Engaging in sports can be a great way to unwind and reduce stress after a busy workday.
- Team Building: These leagues foster teamwork and camaraderie, helping colleagues build stronger friendships and reduce loneliness.
- Community: They create a sense of community and belonging, making the workplace more enjoyable and supportive.
- Work-Life Balance: Encouraging recreational activities helps promote a healthy work-life balance, contributing to overall well-being.
Erlan Wheeler, senior actuarial analyst at Point32Health, has participated in multiple seasons of our recreational league offerings, including soccer, softball, and pickleball. “The sports leagues have been a wonderful way to meet colleagues from across the company, and it’s a fun way to get outside after a long workday looking at a computer screen,” said Wheeler, encouraging other colleagues to give it a try. “I would definitely say sign up! Everyone who plays has a good time whether they are there to be competitive, or just want to play and have a fun time.”