To promote employee well-being and improve productivity, more and more companies are choosing to integrate outdoor play equipment into their work environment. These facilities offer a number of benefits on both a personal and professional level, and contribute to a better working atmosphere. Let’s explore some of the most popular games to consider.
Play areas for adults: let off steam during breaks
It’s not uncommon to see children’s play areas in public parks or school playgrounds. Nowadays, however, these play areas are no longer reserved for the very young. In fact, some companies have decided to install adult play areas in their outdoor premises to encourage employees to relax and let off steam during their free time.
Climb the walls… literally!
The climbing wall is an excellent choice for letting off steam during a lunch break or after a long day’s work. This type of structure offers the opportunity to practice climbing in a safe and progressive way, while exercising the muscles of the whole body. What’s more, it’s an activity that develops self-confidence and perseverance.
The more athletic can try their hand at the obstacle course.
For thrill-seekers who want to push themselves to the limit, the obstacle course is an ideal solution. This type of installation generally consists of several workshops to be completed consecutively: jumps, inclined walls, monkey bridges, tunnels and so on. Employees can work on their endurance, agility and strength.
Fun facilities to encourage exchanges between colleagues
Petanque and mölkky: timeless classics
What would an outdoor relaxation area be without a pétanque court? By installing a boulodrome on your premises, you’ll be giving your employees the chance to enjoy a convivial and relaxing moment around a game that’s familiar to everyone. And if you want to innovate, consider mölkky, a Finnish game that combines strategy and skill, and which has been gaining in popularity in recent years.
Promote socialization with giant games
Giant chess or checkers, XXL tic-tac-toe, oversized power 4… Giant games are increasingly popular with businesses. These installations not only stimulate thinking and strategy, but also create social interaction between colleagues during breaks.
Street furniture: comfort and practicality
In addition to adult play areas, it’s essential to furnish outdoor spaces with street furniture to provide a pleasant place to relax and chat. Here are just some of the features you can consider:
- Benches and tables: To enable employees to sit comfortably and enjoy lunch outdoors, consider installing benches and tables adapted to their needs.
- Waste garbage cans and ashtrays: Provide waste garbage cans and ashtrays to prevent the proliferation of litter and keep the environment clean.
- Lighting: Good lighting is essential to ensure safety when natural light is scarce, especially at the end of the day and during the winter months.
- Green spaces: The integration of green spaces such as lawns, planters and flowerbeds can help create a soothing, pleasant atmosphere.
The benefits of outdoor play equipment
More relaxed and productive employees
By making outdoor play equipment available, companies encourage their employees to take regular breaks for fun and relaxation. Studies have shown that unplugging for a few minutes several times during the day actually leads to greater productivity and concentration once back at work.
Team-building
Playing outdoor games together is an ideal opportunity for employees to get to know each other better outside the strictly professional environment. These interactions foster a climate conducive to collaboration and communication between colleagues, helping to develop a strong team spirit.
Keeping fit and healthy
By engaging in moderate physical activity during breaks, employees can maintain their health, relieve stress and prevent musculoskeletal problems linked to the prolonged sitting posture often adopted in the office.
In short, integrating outdoor play into corporate life offers numerous benefits for both employees and the company itself. By focusing on well-being and relaxation, you’ll create a convivial and unifying atmosphere, conducive to everyone’s professional and personal development.
