At Accelerate, one of our special areas of focus are specialty classes for groups of co-workers. These sessions often start out as a one-time opportunity to build camaraderie and teamwork, but evolve into something more consistent as members experience the benefits.
When co-workers get into a consistent exercise routine together, there is something bigger happening than just a sweat session. The development of a shared sense of purpose in the gym gives people a way to personally connect outside the boundaries of cubicle walls. Friendships and bonds are forged in an enduring way.
I asked Lori Lieske for her thoughts on this. Lori taught group fitness classes 5 days a week at the Java Gym, a facility that serves Starbucks partners exclusively. Here are a few things she said about her experience.
“The best part of my Starbucks workout family was that everyone held each other accountable and were genuinely interested in each other’s well being. We went through birthdays, vacation, births and even cancer together as a unit. We always knew when someone was going to miss class and if there was ever an absent member for an extended period of time there was a touch base from myself and multiple other participants to check in and make sure they were ok. Accountability, care, compassion, commitment and always pushing outside the comfort zone is how I coach and are the characteristics the class ended up embracing to the fullest extent.”
SoulCycle is another gym that fully understands and supports the power of corporate training. They often sell out studio time and dedicate it for an employer or company. Oftentimes, these are team building events or a way to bring together a cross-section of the company that doesn’t get many opportunities to connect outside of the office.
“At SoulCycle we get the importance of personal connection and community,” said Taylor Peterson, SoulCycle marketing & community director. “When we have companies in our studio, the energy is palpable. Everyone is excited to be there and just wants an opportunity to connect on a different level than the day-to-day grind.”
Small group training is also beneficial for corporate teams. After trying out a Tuesday morning class at 5am for his group of sales professionals at Enterprise, Johnny Mills knew he had stumbled onto something differentiating.
“Watching my team get after it in Brandon’s classes is one thing, but what I love seeing is how it translates to the work environment,” says Johnny. “The sense of team work, accountability and wanting each other to succeed doesn’t end when we walk out of the gym.” Johnny’s team now trains twice per week at 5am.
Whether it’s a cross-functional group of colleagues who like to workout, a team building event or a consistent and dedicated effort, the benefits of getting out of the office for a workout are clearly beyond just the calories burned.
If you’re interested in trying Accelerate with your colleagues, let us know! Send an email to: [email protected] with ‘corporate training’ in the subject line.