Participating in a race allows you to set a short-term goal and keep your motivation up to the day. No matter how difficult the race is, once you cross the finish line, you always come out a winner. Many people already run with friends or family, but more and more runners are sharing these moments with colleagues. If you're still unsure, here are 5 good reasons to race with colleagues.
Training with colleagues
If you have ever participated in a race, you know that every running enthusiast must develop an outstanding sense of organization to be able to reconcile professional and sporting life.
It's not always easy to fit your schedule into your training program, but running a race with your colleagues allows you to coordinate your training sessions and motivate each other. Companies also tend to be more flexible when several employees train and even make it easier by encouraging sports on working time. You will no longer have an excuse and you will feel less guilty about taking time for your training if you are accompanied by part of your team.
Jean-Philippe, who took part in the Deloitte Derby with his colleagues, says: "All the values of sport are reinforced from the moment you are no longer alone. The idea is really that the whole team improves, especially in the preparation but also during the event".
Bringing together colleagues from all walks of life
It is well known that the practice of sport favours encounters. In the workplace, it also breaks down hierarchical barriers and brings together employees from all walks of life. Once your sneakers are on, there are no more CEOs, accountants or interns! Simply running enthusiasts who train for a common goal. During the training sessions, there's no question of taking stock of the next meeting! It's a great time to get to know your colleagues on a personal level. It strengthens bonds, team spirit and above all mutual respect.
Have your race sponsored by the company
Business leaders are increasingly recognizing the virtues of team sports in cementing teams. While in the past team sports such as soccer, rugby or basketball were favored, more and more companies are recognizing the benefits of running to bond teams and are choosing to sponsor races. The cost of the bib in the colors of the box is therefore borne by the company, which is not negligible. Some companies even decide to make coaches available to prepare their runners.
An effective team building
We can never say it enough, running is an individual sport that is shared by many. It is a real pleasure to be able to share this passion with colleagues with whom we spend most of our time. Beyond the physical test, running has a real power of teambuilding, from the beginning of the preparation to the D-Day! Crossing the finish line is a strong moment that creates lasting bonds. Some companies that sponsor their employees even choose to invest in a tent in the company village to encourage exchanges after the race and make this moment of cohesion last.
Jean-Philippe says: "Sharing an event like this with your team strengthens everyday ties. We have shared events together, so we are closer and it helps improve our interactions at work. [...] Since the derby, we have shared other events together, on our own initiative. We were in a good sporting dynamic and we organized other events. »
The hormonal benefits of running between colleagues
Oxytocin is a hormone involved in collaborative running. Contrary to other hormones and neurotransmitters, oxytocin is not secreted during an autonomous sporting activity. Indeed, it is produced during positive social relationships, such as: a hug, compliments received or given, when we make or receive a gift, when we share a pleasant moment with our colleagues. In the professional world, the production of oxytocin, linked to the practice of sport among colleagues, will create attachment among colleagues, empathy and a need to share. Oxytocin creates a sense of intimacy and trust within us, which in turn facilitates social interaction and altruistic or cooperative behaviour.
To stay motivated during the winter, there's nothing like setting a goal in the spring, which brings with it the running season. It's time to share this article with your colleagues and sign up for a race to test all these benefits.
At Squadeasy we encourage you to do an activity together to strengthen the cohesion within your team.
If the practice of sport in the workplace has become a key issue for any responsible employer, it is no less beneficial for all your employees. Your needs are varied, our solution is unique thanks to state-of-the-art technology and fun challenges for a unique experience of connected physical activity.
