Almost three quarters (74%) of respondents believe traditional working environments detract from a healthy lifestyle, according to research by teleconferencing organisation Powwownow.
Its survey of 2,000 employees also found that a third (33%) of respondents would like an on-site gym in their workplace.
The research also found:
- 28% of respondents would like access to an outdoor space in their workplace, and 22% would like a chill out area.
- 15% of respondents would like a canteen or shop at work, and 13% of respondents would like access to showers and a changing area.
- 44% of respondents think they would lead a healthier lifestyle if they worked outside of the office because they would do more exercise, and 43% feel the top benefit of working flexibly is that they could spend more time outside.
- 91% of respondents are concerned that long periods of sitting down are bad for their health, and 57% are very concerned about this.
- 92% of respondents do not feel they get enough exercise during the working week.
Jason Downes (pictured), managing director at Powwownow, said: “[Employees] are placing ever greater value on wellness during their working week and are increasingly looking for workplaces that support a healthy lifestyle.
“The easiest way that employers can provide this without having to revamp the office is simply encouraging their staff to work flexibly, both with their hours and locations. When you give employees more flexibility, most [employees] say they would pursue a more active lifestyle.”