"Improved fitness and wellbeing improves concentration levels and productivity, as well as making individuals feel better about themselves,” says the chairman of a leading Shrewsbury-based company.
Tony Bywater from award-winning caravan dealership Salop Leisure has a policy of supporting the company’s 140 staff to stay fit, healthy and happy.
“I’m a firm believer that if you feel good about yourself, you enjoy life more and ultimately do your job better, which is transmitted to customers,” he said.
Throughout the summer, staff from across the company have been organising weekly six mile running sessions alongside the River Severn in Shrewsbury and have also completed the Shrewsbury Half Marathon.
Four members of staff completed the Lake Vyrnwy Half Marathon on September 15. Assistant marketing manager Ed Glover and after sales engineer Sam Wright both finished in one hour 53 minutes, managing director Dylan Roberts one hour 58 minutes and accounts trainee Sophie Ratcliff two hours six minutes. Dylan’s wife, Glesni, completed the run in two hours two minutes.
In addition, the company’s football team took part in a charity football match at the Greenhous Meadow Stadium against the Greenhous Group to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Some members of staff have also taken part in the regular ‘Boot Camp’ sessions organised by Ultimate Fitness Experience in the company’s grounds throughout the summer.
Employees of Salop Leisure enjoy the bonus of membership of Rowton Castle Country Club, near Shrewsbury where they attend the gym and play a wide range of sports. The company is also planning after work yoga and pilates classes for staff this autumn and winter to aid relaxation and fitness.
“Apart from supporting health and wellbeing of our staff, these activities help with team bonding, communications between the different departments, reduce the number of staff sick days and increase job satisfaction,” explained Mr Bywater. “There are massive personal benefits associated with fitness and good health.”
