The COM2SPORTS project was initiated in response to growing public health concerns related to sedentary lifestyles, physical inactivity, and their impact on workers’ well-being and productivity. Funded under the Erasmus+ Sport programme, COM2SPORTS brings together partners from Italy, Slovenia, and Serbia to promote sport and physical activity in workplace settings through the organization of inclusive, multisport events and structured collaboration between sport clubs and companies.
Modern work environments—often dominated by desk-based roles, long hours, and high levels of stress—have contributed to rising rates of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, obesity, diabetes, and mental health issues. In this context, workplaces represent both a challenge and an opportunity: while they may contribute to sedentary habits, they also offer a powerful platform to reach adults with health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) initiatives. COM2SPORTS therefore takes a dual approach. On one hand, it promotes large-scale company sport events to engage employees in fun, inclusive physical activity. On the other, it builds the capacity of sport staff and volunteers to work with employers in developing and delivering physical activity opportunities that are tailored to workplace needs and structures. The project aims to create scalable models of corporate sport collaboration that can be adopted across Europe.
Benefits of Physical Activity
The scientific evidence supporting the benefits of physical activity is unequivocal. Regular participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity leads to:
• Reduced risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
• Improved mental health, including lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Enhanced cognitive function, better concentration, and improved memory.
• Stronger musculoskeletal health, posture, and mobility.
• Increased energy levels and reduced fatigue.
• Improved immune system functioning and better quality of life.
Furthermore, physical activity is a key determinant of healthy ageing and disease prevention, with long-term benefits for individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
Why Employers Should Promote Physical Activity
Employers are uniquely positioned to act as facilitators of healthier lifestyles. By promoting physical activity through workplace initiatives, they can gain multiple organizational advantages, including:
• Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism: Physically active employees are less likely to take sick leave and more likely to be fully productive while at work.
• Higher employee morale and job satisfaction: Sport activities and events foster a sense of belonging, shared purpose, and social connection among staff.
• Improved recruitment and retention: Health-conscious workplaces are more attractive to skilled job seekers and help retain top talent.
• Enhanced team cohesion and communication: Group-based activities, such as company sport events, naturally build trust and collaboration between colleagues.
• Lower healthcare costs: Preventive health strategies reduce the long-term burden of medical expenses related to chronic conditions.
• Alignment with CSR and ESG goals: Promoting health, inclusion, and sustainability through sport reflects positively on a company’s social responsibility and sustainability commitments.
In the COM2SPORTS project, companies are not only participants in events but strategic partners in a cultural shift—embedding physical activity into workplace routines and corporate values. The project serves as a catalyst to inspire organizations to make physical activity a cornerstone of employee well-being and organizational excellence.