Do your team need a pick me up? Do you have staff who have been working at kitchen tables without supportive chairs and the correct office set up during lockdown? Is sickness in the workplace due to back pain an issue? Pilates could offer a solution for your business!
According to the HSE, in 2019/20;
- Stress, depression or anxiety and musculoskeletal disorders accounted for the majority of days lost due to work-related ill health, 17.9 million and 8.9 million respectively.
- On average, each person suffering took around 17.6 days off work. This varies as follows:
- 1 days for injuries
- 0 days for ill health cases
- 6 days for stress, depression or anxiety
- 4 days for musculoskeletal disorders
The answer surely lies in increasing activity and reducing sedentary time at workstations to help improve overall wellbeing. Even those with active roles including lifting and handling may experience kyphosis or weakened lower back muscles and should spend time focussing on their wellbeing. Westfield Health conducted a Wellbeing Index which found that “one in five employees think support from their employer is below average or very poor, and a further 43% say it’s just ‘average’”. There are so many initiatives to promote wellbeing (both physical and mental). What better time to begin supporting your workforce than now, following the latest dreary lockdowns?
What is Pilates?
Founded in 1920s by Joseph Pilates, Pilates provides a total body workout with a focus conditioning the core (abdominals, lower back and stabilising muscles). It’s achieved through precise execution of flowing exercises and lateral breathing patterns.
What are the benefits?
- Pilates could help to reduce people’s risk of injury as it improves balance and coordination.
- It can help reduce stress and anxiety as there is a focus on mental well-being and mindful breathing techniques.
- It can also reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders as Pilates focuses on strengthening the core and improving posture which can reduce back pain even in those who have suffered for years.
The proof is in the Pilates – Corporate Testimony
As an employer our staff’s health and wellbeing is one of our priorities, we were recommended Dragonfly by another corporate business and found the experience over the last 15 months to have a positive effect on our workforce. Some of the benefits relayed by our team in their words:
‘The classes are relaxing, helping to relief any stress’ – Staff Member
“Amy caters for all our staff requirements, based on their ability, always offering alternative choices with each exercise. I joined the class about three months ago after listening to the benefits of Pilates from my staff. It has improved my breathing and posture, helping me to not slouch when in meetings or sitting at my desk. I would recommend Dragonfly Pilates to a corporate business if you wanted to improve the health and wellbeing of any team or individual.” Martin Rice Managing Director – The General Asphalte Company.
A personal note
Amy Smith established Dragonfly Pilates in 2019. Amy was working as a Transformation Manager for a large global premium vehicle manufacturer when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2017. Symptoms of MS include loss of balance and coordination as well as loss of motor power. Amy led an active life, and Pilates was a discipline that she regularly attended. She studied Sport & Exercise at university, and has always held a keen interest in physical and mental health. Following her diagnosis, she channelled her energy, re-trained and established Dragonfly Pilates with Amy.
Please get in touch with Amy from Dragonfly Pilates to discuss your corporate requirements [email protected]. More information can be found at www.dragonflypilates.co.uk. Amy offers online group corporate Pilates or face to face outdoor Pilates at your workplace (indoors subject to restrictions).