It is no secret that ongoing exercise leads to better mental health, increased creativity and higher productivity levels in the workplace.

The long-term benefits of creating a fitness-friendly environment for your staff far outweigh the initial costs associated. Studies show that the national cost of employees not getting the recommended level of physical activity, specifically for lost productivity, was estimated at $9.3 billion in 2008.

As a small business owner, there are many ways to implement a wellbeing program for your staff and still reap the benefits, at a low-cost level.

It starts with the simplest of measures. Swap the vending machine filled with junk food for healthy and nutritious snacks. Avoid a sugar crash, and enhance brain power and creativity with foods that can keep an employee fuller for longer.

Building a private gym may not be realistic on a small budget. So why not organise weekly or even daily yoga classes for your employees? Yoga is an excellent way to relieve stress and boost energy levels to combat a mid-afternoon slump.

Schedule a ‘walking’ meeting. This is a chance to take a stroll and still discuss work-related matters. Light exercise and a change of pace can improve an individual’s level of creativity.

Generate ideas with your employees, and design a wellbeing program that fits in perfectly with both your team and financial budget.