Sweatworking

Sweatworking, a novel approach to business networking that incorporates physical exercise, has gained traction in recent years. Originating in the USA, this innovative concept found its way to London in 2012, where local gyms began offering facilities and sessions tailored for sweatworking activities.

One notable proponent of sweatworking is journalist Lucy Kellaway, who decided to explore this unconventional networking method. Kellaway's experience involved sweatworking alongside Andy Bond, the chairman of Wiggle. Bond, with prior experience in similar activities during his tenure at Asda, including playing five-a-side football with Archie Norman, was no stranger to combining physical activity with professional interactions.

During their sweatworking session at Fitness First, which involved spinning, Kellaway and Bond found limited opportunities for conversation amidst the intensity of the exercise. However, they both acknowledged that the shared experience of physical exertion created a unique bond between them. This shared suffering served as a catalyst for establishing rapport and fostering connections beyond the traditional confines of a business meeting.

Sweatworking thus presents an alternative approach to conventional networking, offering participants the chance to forge connections while breaking a sweat. This blend of physical activity and professional engagement not only promotes wellness but also cultivates a sense of camaraderie and shared experience among participants. As the trend continues to grow, sweatworking may become a staple in the repertoire of business networking strategies, offering a refreshing and dynamic alternative to traditional meeting formats.

References