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Sports Excursion: Team building that's fun and motivating!
A sports outing is more than just a leisure event. It is an investment in your team and your business. Discover how a well-organised sports outing can boost motivation, foster team spirit and at the same time support your employees' health. Do you want to make your next company outing unforgettable? Contact us for personalised advice!
The topic, briefly and concisely
A sports outing is a strategic investment that boosts employee motivation and sustainably strengthens team spirit. It provides a welcome change and promotes health.
The right choice of sports is crucial. Involve your employees and consider different fitness levels. Hiking is an ideal option as it offers health and psychological benefits.
Avoid planning mistakes by carefully preparing all aspects and considering the legal framework. Use the sports excursion for your employer branding to position your company as an attractive employer. An increase of employee retention by 10% is realistic.
Discover how a perfectly planned sports outing can strengthen teamwork, boost employee motivation, and at the same time promote health. Find out more now!
A sports outing is more than just an entertaining day away from the workplace. It represents a strategic investment in your team, significantly boosting employee motivation and sustainably strengthening the team spirit. But what makes such an outing so important, and why is it so relevant for modern companies? At its core, it is an organized activity that brings employees together outside the usual work environment to engage in sports or participate in sporting activities. Unlike other company outings, such as summer parties or Christmas parties, the focus here is on physical activity and promoting health and well-being. In a time where remote work and digital communication are becoming increasingly important, sports outings offer a valuable opportunity to nurture personal relationships and enhance the sense of belonging. A successful event of this kind can lay the foundation for productive and trusting collaboration. The definition and purpose of a company outing, as described by Papershift, underscore the importance for team cohesion and the work environment.
The benefits of a well-organized sports outing are manifold. It can boost employee motivation by providing a welcome break from the work routine and offering the chance to thrive outside the office. Additionally, it promotes employee loyalty by signaling to employees that their employer values their health and well-being. It also enhances the work environment by improving communication and collaboration among employees. As such, such an outing is an essential tool for successful employer branding. According to Karrierebibel, company outings are an investment in employee retention, talent acquisition, and team performance.
We at GoTuro understand the importance of team building and employee motivation. We offer tailored sports outings that are designed to meet the individual needs of your team. Contact us to plan your bespoke sports outing and lead your team to new heights. With our carefully crafted programs, we not only foster team spirit but also the health and well-being of your employees. Invest in your employees – for a strong team and a successful business course.
Selection of sports: Enthuse all employees with a variety of options
Choosing the right sport is crucial for the success of your sports excursion. An activity that only appeals to part of the team can quickly lead to frustration and demotivation. Therefore, it is important to involve employees in the selection process and ensure that the chosen activity is accessible and appealing to everyone. The Karrierebibel emphasises the importance of team involvement in selecting the activity to increase acceptance and enthusiasm. A simple way to involve employees is through a survey or vote. Let your team submit suggestions for possible activities and then vote together. Even if it is not possible to achieve complete consensus, such a process leads to greater involvement and more enjoyment of the sports excursion. When selecting the sport, consider the different fitness levels and interests of your employees. Offer alternative activities for employees with limited physical capabilities or choose a sport that can be easily adapted to different needs.
Suitable sports for a sports excursion include hiking, cycling, climbing or canoeing. Team games such as volleyball, football, or beach volleyball are also a good choice to promote team spirit. For employees who prefer a more relaxed pace, individual sports with a group character like outdoor yoga or pilates are recommended. It is important that the chosen activity brings joy to all employees and provides an opportunity to exercise and enjoy nature. factorialHR lists sporting activities such as mini-golf, bowling, and go-karting as options for company outings. Remember that the sports excursion is not only a sporting event but also an opportunity for team building. Choose an activity that promotes collaboration and communication among employees and provides an opportunity to get to know each other better.
To optimise the selection of sports, you should consider the following aspects: Offer variety to cater for different interests; ensure inclusion so that all employees can participate; and highlight the fun factor to keep motivation high. A well-thought-out plan that considers the needs of everyone is the key to a successful and motivating sports excursion. This way, you create an unforgettable experience that strengthens team spirit and sustainably improves employee engagement.
Ensuring legal certainty: Professional planning for smooth operations
Careful planning and organisation are crucial for a smooth execution of your sports excursion. Besides choosing the sport and involving the staff, you must also consider logistical and legal aspects. The Karrierebibel highlights the organisational effort associated with a successful company outing. Start with booking activities, transport and accommodation. Create a detailed schedule and itinerary that contains all important information. Clarify legal frameworks such as the voluntary nature of participation and equal treatment of all employees. Note the role of the works council, if present, and ensure that all employees are sufficiently covered by accident insurance. The information from Papershift provides a comprehensive overview of the legal aspects of company outings, including the role of the works council and accident insurance cover.
The financial aspects should also not be neglected. Create a detailed budget plan and decide how the costs will be distributed (employer coverage, employee contributions). Consider the tax treatment of company outings and the allowance of 110 Euro per participant per year. The factorialHR mentions the 110 Euro threshold for tax-free company outings. Transparent cost reporting and clear communication channels are essential in this regard. Inform your employees early on about all relevant details to avoid misunderstandings and ensure high acceptance.
A well-planned sports excursion is not only a sporting event but also a sign of appreciation for your employees. Invest time and effort in planning and organisation to ensure that your sports excursion is a complete success. Also, consider unforeseen events and develop an emergency plan to be able to respond flexibly. This ensures that your sports excursion not only runs smoothly but also leaves a lasting positive impression on your employees.
Hiking as Team Building: Enhance Health and Motivation in Nature
Hiking is an ideal option for a sport outing as it offers both health and psychological benefits and can easily be adapted to different fitness levels. The Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) emphasises the health benefits of hiking and its rising popularity, especially among younger generations. Hiking is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among younger generations who long for outdoor experiences and deceleration. It is a simple and accessible way to get active and enjoy nature. Regular hiking has positive effects on the cardiovascular system and the musculoskeletal system. It burns calories (about 320 kcal per hour) and enhances endurance. The TK-Fit programme incentivises hiking with financial rewards or partner vouchers.
Moreover, hiking also has positive effects on mental health. It lifts the mood, reduces stress, and improves memory performance. Studies have shown that being in nature boosts concentration and stimulates creativity. The TK refers to research findings from Stanford University that demonstrate the positive effects of hiking on mood, anxiety, and memory. When planning a hike as a sport outing, you should consider a few tips. Choose suitable hiking trails according to the fitness level of the participants. Recommend the right equipment (hiking boots, clothing) and highlight the importance of sufficient hydration and nourishment. Plan breaks and ensure a relaxed atmosphere.
To optimise hiking as a team-building activity, you should consider the following points: Set shared goals to strengthen the sense of belonging; integrate team tasks, such as finding the way or carrying equipment; and experience nature consciously to maximise the positive effects on mental health. This way, the sport outing becomes an unforgettable experience that not only promotes physical fitness but also sustainably strengthens team spirit.
Professional conduct: Define clear rules for respectful interaction
Even though a sports outing offers a relaxed and informal atmosphere, it is important that all participants behave professionally. Clear rules of conduct and expectations help to avoid uncomfortable situations and ensure that the sports outing is a positive experience for everyone. The career bible emphasises the importance of professional behaviour, even in a relaxed environment. Clearly communicate that the sports outing is an official company event, even if it takes place outside the office. Avoid discussions about controversial topics, complaints about the workplace, forming cliques, spreading negativity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Papershift provides a list of "Do's and Don'ts" for behaviour during company outings.
Remind participants that inappropriate behaviour can lead to disciplinary action. Ensure that all employees know and understand the rules of conduct. factorialHR points out that inappropriate behaviour during a company outing can have disciplinary consequences. Open communication before the outing is crucial here. Inform your employees about the applicable rules and answer any questions they may have. This creates clarity and ensures mutual respect.
Professional behaviour during the sports outing helps to maintain the company's image and ensure that all participants have a positive experience. Promote respectful interaction by offering team-building activities that strengthen collaboration and communication. This way, the sports outing becomes a valuable contribution to a positive working atmosphere and a strong company culture.
Strengthen Employer Branding: Use Sports Trips as a Long-Term Investment
A sports outing is not merely a short-term event, but also a long-term investment in employee engagement and employer branding. A well-planned and executed sports outing can boost employee loyalty and satisfaction, enhance the company's image as an attractive employer, and encourage motivation and willingness to perform among staff. The Career Bible highlights the long-term effects of company outings on employee retention, talent acquisition, and team performance. By providing appreciation and team building that a sports outing offers, employees feel a stronger connection to the company. They are more inclined to invest in the organisation and remain for the long haul, thereby reducing turnover and saving on recruitment costs. A successful sports outing can significantly strengthen employee retention.
A company that regularly organises sports outings demonstrates its care for its employees' wellbeing. This not only makes the company more attractive to potential applicants but also facilitates talent acquisition. A positive employer image is a crucial competitive edge in the job market. A sports outing can also enhance employee motivation and willingness to perform. Engaging in shared sports activities in a relaxed setting helps reduce stress and rejuvenate energy levels, leading to higher productivity and creativity in day-to-day work. A motivated and performance-ready team is a critical success factor for any business.
To optimally leverage a sports outing for your employer branding, you should undertake the following actions: Actively communicate the outing externally, for example, via social media or your company website; Document the outing with photos and videos, to provide a genuine insight into your corporate culture; and Involve your employees in the communication to share their positive experiences. This way, the sports outing becomes a valuable tool for your employer branding and helps position your company as an attractive employer.
Avoid planning mistakes: Ensure the success of your sports trip
When planning and conducting a sports outing, mistakes can occur that jeopardise the success of the event. To avoid this, you should be aware of and consider the following pitfalls. The Papershift lists planning mistakes to avoid, such as lack of planning, neglecting legal requirements, and disregarding employees' wishes. Inadequate preparation and organisation can turn the sports outing into a disaster. Ensure you plan and organise all key aspects in advance, from selecting the sport and booking activities and transport to creating a detailed schedule. Careful planning is the foundation for a successful sports outing. Ignoring aspects like voluntariness, insurance cover, and tax law can lead to legal problems. Inform yourself about the applicable regulations beforehand and ensure that all employees are sufficiently protected. factorialHR emphasises the importance of complying with legal requirements when planning company outings.
Selecting activities that do not align with employees' interests can lead to frustration and demotivation. Involve your employees in the selection process and ensure that the chosen activity is accessible and appealing for everyone. A sports outing should meet the needs and desires of the employees. Activities that disadvantage or exclude certain employee groups can result in dissatisfaction and conflict. Make sure that all employees have equal opportunities to participate in and enjoy the sports outing. Inclusion is an essential aspect of planning a sports outing. Ensure that emergency personnel can perform their duties during the sports outing. Plan for appropriate cover and ensure seamless communication. The safety of employees is of the utmost priority.
To avoid these planning mistakes, you should take the following measures: Create a detailed checklist to cover all important aspects; actively involve your employees in the planning to consider their needs and wishes; and review all legal and safety aspects to minimise risks. This ensures that your sports outing will be a complete success and inspire and motivate your employees sustainably.
More than team building: Rediscover the tradition of the excursion
The sport excursion has a long tradition that goes beyond mere team-building activities. In the past, excursions were organised by clubs and communities to strengthen the sense of togetherness and to promote the joy of shared experiences. Vereinstiger.com emphasises the tradition of club excursions as opposed to modern team-building measures. The change of scenery and being in nature have a positive effect on mental health. They promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mood. Studies have shown that travel and new environments enhance well-being. Vereinstiger.com cites a study linking travel to happiness. The word "excursion" has an interesting historical origin. It comes from the Middle High German word "ūzfluc" or "ûʒvluc," which referred to the first flight of young birds and bees. This connection to nature and the venture into new realms is also reflected in the modern understanding of the word. Vereinstiger.com explains the historical origin of the word "excursion".
A sport excursion is therefore more than just a sporting activity. It is an opportunity to revive the tradition of shared experiences, to enjoy nature, and to promote mental health. It offers a break from everyday life, opens up new perspectives, and stimulates creativity. Seize this opportunity to offer your staff an unforgettable experience that will be remembered positively for a long time.
To rediscover the tradition of excursions, you should consider the following aspects: Choose a location with historical significance or special natural beauty to engage the senses; integrate elements of regional culture and tradition to strengthen the sense of community; and create space for informal conversations and exchange of experiences to deepen personal relationships. This way, the sport excursion becomes a holistic experience that engages body, mind, and soul.
Sustainable Success: Sports Excursions as an Investment in Employee Health
More useful links
At Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), you will find information on the health benefits of hiking and incentives through the TK-Fit programme.
The Federal Ministry of Health offers information and resources on physical activity and health.
The Federal Statistical Office provides data and statistics on the working world and health in Germany.
The Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health offers information and resources on workplace safety and health protection.
FAQ
What exactly is a sports outing and how does it differ from other company outings?
A sports outing is an organised trip that focuses on sporting activities. Unlike summer parties or Christmas gatherings, the emphasis here is on physical activity, health, and team building through sport.
What benefits does a sports outing offer my company?
A sports outing boosts employee motivation, enhances employee retention, improves the work environment, and strengthens employer branding. It's a welcome break from the work routine and shows appreciation.
How do I choose the right sport for my sports outing?
Involve your employees in the selection process. Consider the different fitness levels and interests. Offer a variety of options such as hiking, cycling, climbing, or team games.
What legal aspects should I consider when planning a sports outing?
Ensure voluntary participation, equal treatment of all employees, and the accident insurance coverage. Consider the role of the works council, if applicable, and the tax treatment of company outings (110 Euros tax-free limit).
What role does professional behaviour play during a sports outing?
Even in a relaxed atmosphere, professional behaviour is essential. Avoid controversial discussions, complaints, and excessive alcohol consumption. Communicate clear behavioural guidelines in advance.
How can I best use the sports outing for my employer branding?
Actively share the outing externally, e.g. via social media. Document the outing with photos and videos. Include your employees in the communication to provide authentic insights into your company culture.
What planning mistakes should I avoid for a sports outing?
Avoid insufficient preparation, neglecting legal conditions, ignoring employee preferences, and activities that disadvantage certain employee groups.
What alternatives are there to hiking as a sport for a sports outing?
In addition to hiking, cycling, climbing, canoeing, team games like volleyball or football, outdoor yoga or Pilates are also suitable. It's important that the activity is enjoyable for everyone and offers the chance to move and enjoy nature.
