I’ve spent my entire career in the fitness industry and I cantell you that, despite long being a staple of many offices, today’son-site fitness centers are much more than“just gyms.”

For starters, they’re becoming an invaluable tool in the ongoing battle for talent. Today’son-site fitness centers address much more than just physical health. Sure, you’ll still findtreadmills, weights and stationary bikes to help withcardiovascular health and strength. But, you’ll alsofind:

• Hula hoop classes to help employees improve coordination,balance, rhythm, strength, and flexibility.

• On-site training led by experts in disciplines like muay thaiboxing, which is similar to regular boxing but with the addition ofkicks, knee and elbow strikes.

• Health coaches, who are trained to help you design holisticwell-being programs to meet your specific wellness goals.

And these additions are turning out to be a huge perk foremployees.

Research backs it up. According to recent reports,75 percent of employees say a personal touch is important in theirhealth, well-being and fitness program. We hear from employees allthe time that they want more access to “live experts.” Credible,engaging people who can lead fitness classes, for example. Or,health experts who can provide one-on-one support and coaching foremployees’ specific well-being needs.