What does being a professional athlete have in common with working in a profession that demands a lot from us mentally or physically? As we see it, both occupations challenge the body and the brain in extreme conditions. The difference? As an Olympic athlete, Jan Smeekens could immediately see the consequences of unhealthy choices on the scoreboard, while employees in the workplace may not face the consequences of work pressure or an unhealthy lifestyle until after years of work.  

 

If we want employees to still be full of energy when they cross the finish line of their working life – or for that matter at the end of a working week or even a single workday – it is vital that they devote time and attention to a healthy lifestyle. But how do you deal with work circumstances that can put pressure on your health? Consider the challenge of creating healthy working conditions even when those involve irregular working due to alternating shifts, or of creating a healthy work-rest ratio when the workload is heavy. Although it’s not always possible to change circumstances at work, there are fortunately plenty of options and tips that allow employees to take control of their situation so that they can reach the finish line both healthy and happy.  

 

To encourage employees in this, former Olympic athlete Jan Smeekens and vitality coach Ilonka Terlouw have developed the special workshop: “Work is a sport: How to still be in great shape when you cross the finish line”. During the 15 years that Jan dedicated to his career as a top-tier speed skater, his focus on fitness was essential for an optimal performance. Key themes when it came to keeping his body in top condition were sleep, nutrition and exercise. In this workshop, we dive into these themes, together with the participants. How can sleep, nutrition and exercise reinforce each other and generate optimal energy? How fit do employees actually feel? To what extent can gains be made in their all-round fitness? Jan and Ilonka form a strong and energetic duo, with Jan sharing his experiences and lessons learned as a top-tier athlete and Ilonka translating her years of experience as a coach into practical knowledge and tips.