Sayo

Are you in need of a refreshing escape without the commitment of an overnight stay? Discover the top hotels near you that offer day passes to their luxurious pools and well-equipped gyms. Whether you're looking to rest by the poolside, get in a workout, or simply enjoy a day of pampering away from stress, these hotels provide the perfect opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Dive into this guide of some top recommendations in no particular order and find your ideal spot for a day of relaxation.

Lagos Oriental Hotel features a state-of-the-art gym equipped with advanced exercise machines and weights. The hotel also boasts an expansive pool with a stunning view, offering guests a luxurious place to unwind after their workout. The ambiance of the hotel adds an extra layer of elegance to your day.

3 Lekki - Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos


Ideal for those in Victoria Island and nearby areas seeking a top-tier fitness and pool experience within a refined and upscale environment.

Watercress Hotels & Events provides a contemporary and inviting gym space equipped with modern fitness machines suitable for various workout needs. The hotel also offers a pristine pool where guests can take a dip and relax after a fulfilling exercise session. The overall ambiance is designed to offer both comfort and luxury, making it a great escape for wellness seekers.

48, Oritshe Street, Off Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos


Perfect for those in Ikeja and surrounding areas who are looking for an accessible yet luxurious gym and pool day pass experience.

Known for its luxury and comfort, 24|7 Luxury Hotel provides top-tier gym facilities and an elegant pool. The ambiance makes it ideal for an indulgent day of fitness and relaxation.

39 Kusenla Rd, Lekki Penninsula II, Lekki 106104, Lagos, Nigeria


For those in Lekki seeking a sophisticated atmosphere and high-end fitness equipment, this hotel is a prime choice.

 The hotel provides free use of its well-equipped gym and a tranquil pool area overlooking the Lagos Lagoon

1A Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos

Perfect for travelers seeking fitness and relaxation in a waterfront setting.

Offers complimentary access to a boutique fitness center and an elegant pool area

4 Onitolo Road (Lawrence Road), Ikoyi, Lagos


Known for exclusivity and comfort, The Wheatbaker is ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

Guests enjoy free access to the fitness center and a well-maintained pool.

30 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos

A convenient option for travelers seeking wellness amenities close to the airport.

7. Protea Hotel by Marriott Lagos Kuramo Waters

 Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool and access a well-equipped gym for free.

 Kuramo Waters Close, Victoria Island, Lagos


A peaceful retreat with great facilities for fitness-conscious travelers.

The hotel features a spacious outdoor pool and a gym, both available for free to staying guests.

6-8 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos


Offers a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and fitness in a luxurious setting.

Guests enjoy free access to a modern gym and a large outdoor pool surrounded by a serene environment.

Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos

A renowned luxury hotel offering excellent wellness amenities for relaxation and fitness

Offers complimentary access to an intimate pool area and a high-end gym.


A boutique luxury hotel catering to wellness-oriented guests with top-tier amenities.


Lagos offers a variety of top-tier hotels that cater to both fitness and leisure needs, making your stay not just comfortable but also rejuvenating. Staying in a hotel that offers complimentary access to gym and pool facilities not only enhances your travel experience but also supports your wellness goals. Whether you're in Lagos for business or leisure, these top hotels provide a perfect blend of fitness, relaxation, and luxury to ensure your stay is enjoyable and productive. 



Access multiple fitness centers in your city and nationwide with one pass. Flance Pass offers a range of choices starting from just ₦12,000/month, no additional fees at the gym.

Start your fitness journey with Flance today and make every workout count towards a healthier, stronger you!

Top 10 Hotels in Lagos Offering a Day Pass to the Pool & Gym

Unlock Your Fitness Business’s True Potential in 2025

As a gym owner or manager, you’re not just running a fitness facility; you’re building a community and shaping lives. But in an industry where competition is fierce, staying ahead is not just being open but finding ways to grow, adapt, and thrive. How can you achieve this? By running your gym like a pro. Let’s explore what that really means—and how you can make it happen.


Your clients are your biggest asset, and keeping them happy and engaged is key to your success.

Ever had a loyal member leave without warning? Often, it’s not because they didn’t like your gym but because they felt unnoticed. Tracking your clients’ activities and understanding their needs—like when their plans expire—helps you anticipate and address issues before they arise.

Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions

A simple check-in, a birthday shoutout, or a quick survey can make all the difference. People stay where they feel valued, so don’t just sell memberships—build relationships. Happy clients are not only loyal; they’re your best marketers.

Nobody likes chasing unpaid dues or remembering every renewal date. Automating these processes ensures you stay on top of your operations while focusing on what you do best—running a great gym.

The look, feel, and safety of your gym tell a story about how much you care about your members.

A well-maintained gym isn’t just a bonus—it’s non-negotiable. Regularly check your equipment, tidy up wires, and post clear safety instructions. Members should walk in confident they’ll leave without a scratch.

You’ve probably heard it before: “I joined because it looked clean and professional.” Clean floors, organized spaces, and good lighting create a vibe that says, “We care.”

Add personal touches that make your space memorable—think cool playlists, creative class names, or even a signature scent. These small details turn casual visits into consistent memberships.

How do you attract new members in an industry packed with options? By being where they are and making it easy for them to find you.

Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok aren’t just for influencers—they’re for you, too. Share your gym’s energy through client success stories, staff shoutouts, and behind-the-scenes clips. People love seeing authenticity.

Do passersby even know your gym exists? Clear, visible signage and local promotions go a long way in turning neighborhood strangers into loyal members.

Fitness discovery platforms and Google listings aren’t optional anymore—they’re essential. If your gym isn’t easy to find online, it’s invisible to a generation of potential clients who search for everything on their phones.

At Flance, we know how much you pour into your business. That’s why we’re here to help gym owners like you not just survive but thrive. Our all-in-one solution makes it easy to:

•	Manage clients effortlessly with automated tools.

•	Simplify payments and keep your cash flow consistent.

•	Gain insights into your business with powerful reports.

•	Be discovered by thousands of health-conscious individuals looking for their next fitness home.

Let’s Build the Future of Fitness Together

If you’re ready to take your gym to the next level, Flance is here to help. It’s time to turn your hard work into a thriving, sustainable business.


📧 Got questions? Email us at providers@flanceapp.com

Let’s transform your gym into the go-to fitness hub in your city. 

Run Your Gym Like a Pro  

Precious

If you’re in Lagos and looking for top-notch gyms to meet your fitness goals or trying to keep fit to keep up with the vibrant lifestyle the city is known for. The city is home to a wide range of fitness centers equipped with modern equipment, expert trainers, and a variety of classes to keep you motivated. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 gyms in Lagos with no ranking implied that can help you achieve your health and fitness goals.

Beyond Fitness is a high-end fitness center located in Victoria Island. It offers luxurious facilities with high-end equipment and a range of classes, including yoga, pilates, and strength training. It’s a favorite for professionals seeking a premium fitness experience.

Location: 18 Amodu Ojikutu St, Victoria Islnd

Highlights: Premium facilities, Lockers, high-end equipment, yoga and pilates.

iFitness has established itself as a leading fitness chain with locations across Lagos. They offer flexible membership plans and cater to people of all fitness levels with diverse classes, modern equipment, and skilled trainers.

Highlights: Muscle building, endurance training, group sessions, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Dance Strength Training, Multiple branches, flexible membership and diverse classes.

SweatBox is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a variety of fitness programs, including HIIT, spin classes, and personal training. The gym has a clean, modern facility with top-of-the-line equipment, making it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts.

Highlights: HIIT, spin classes and personal training

FitNigeria have a large variety of classes and their trainers help with your goals be it getting in shape or improving your strength. They offer personal coaching and group sessions, focusing on functional fitness, weight training, and have a serene environment.

Location: Upbeat Centre, 11 Admiralty Rd, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.

Highlights: Boxing, endurance building, high-energy classes and Online, Classes.

Fitness Arcade provides a welcoming environment with modern gym facilities. They offer group classes, personal training, and a range of suitable for weight training and cardio, attracting members from all fitness levels and equipments

Location: km28 Lekki - Epe Expressway, Abijo, Lekki

Highlights: Group classes, personal training, cardio and weight training.

Frebson Fitness Gym has a friendly community atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for individuals who enjoy a social workout environment.

Location: 40 Ire-akare estate road, Isolo, Lagos, Ikeja

Highlights: strength training and personalized workout plan.

EliteBox Fitness is the best gym for boxing in Lagos. Can you can go there to train to be a pro boxer? Yes, they are that good. They also have a guideline on which gym membership to apply for, which consists of the possibilities and your availability in coming to the gym.The gym provides various classes, including dance, strength training, and yoga, catering to all fitness levels. They also have a sauna.

Location: NIJ HOUSE, 20 Adeyemo Alakija St, Victoria Island, Lagos

Highlights: Boxing, Dance and yoga classes, strength training, Sauna and supportive community.

This gym is well-loved for its high-energy classes and motivating trainers. With an emphasis on boxing, strength training, and endurance building, Proflex gym is ideal for people who enjoy a dynamic workout environment.

Location: 20/24 Ozumba Mbadiwe Ave, Victoria Island, Ikeja 106104, Lagos

Highlights: Functional fitness, weight training and cardio sessions.

BodyLine Gym offers swimming lessons and is a well equipped gym with friendly staff. It has a supportive environment focused on personal fitness and wellness. You can workout, take a dip and relax by the poolside.

Highlights: Weightlifting, Lockers, Swimming Pool, functional fitness and community vibe.

Fitness Plus Gym believes that fitness should be a way of life and so, they seek to encourage people to take time off their busy schedules to develop and cultivate a lifestyle of fitness which on the long run will affect the overall well-being of the individual, boost body metabolism, promote productivity at work, and increase longevity amongst several other benefits.

Location: 231 Herbert Macaulay Wy, Yaba, Lagos

Highlights: Lockers, Aerobics, Cycling, Nutrition consulting, Personal training, Zumba and Fitness.

Each of these gyms brings something unique to Lagos’s fitness scene, from premium facilities to community-focused workouts. Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or a gym with an inclusive, supportive vibe, Lagos has plenty of options.

Make Your Fitness Journey Easier with Flance 

Access multiple fitness centers in your city and nationwide with one pass. Flance Pass offers a range of choices starting from just ₦10,000/month, no additional fees at the gym.

Start your fitness journey with Flance today and make every workout count towards a healthier, stronger you! 

Top 10 Gyms in Lagos 

Are you in Abuja trying to fit into the city's bustling energy and ambition? You’ll find some of the best gyms to meet your wellness and fitness goals. Here’s our list of the top 10 gyms in Abuja with no ranking implied, each offering unique facilities, top-notch equipment, and expert trainers to help you reach new heights. Here are 10 top gyms in Abuja just for you.

Ecofitness Hub is the perfect spot for fitness lovers in the Gwarinpa area. The gym offers a range of facilities and classes, from personal training to group sessions focused on strength training, cardio, and HIIT. With a team of professional trainers, Ecofitness Hub provides a welcoming environment for all fitness levels.

Highlights: Lockers, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Boxing / Martial Arts, Dance, Personal Training and Strength Training.

Bodyrox Fitness Studio, also known as Savage House, offers a premium fitness experience in the Central Business District. With high-tech equipment, skilled trainers, and unique classes, this studio combines luxury with results-driven workouts, making it a top choice for professionals in Abuja.

Location: 3rd Floor, Silverbird Entertainment Center, Plot 1161, Memorial Drive, Central Business District

Highlights: Premium facilities, luxury environment, high-tech equipment, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Boxing / Martial Arts, Dance, and Strength Training.

Best Body Gym is known for itspresence by delivering unique, personalized client services and the gym’s trainers focus on personalized guidance, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and advanced members alike.

Location: 470 Aminu Kano Cres, AMAC, Abuja.

Highlights: Sauna, Wide range of equipment, group classes, personalized guidance, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine and Strenght Training.

iFitness caters to individuals of all fitness levels with its well-rounded classes and high-quality equipment. Known for its friendly community vibe, this center offers strength and cardio workouts along with personal coaching sessions to help you stay consistent and motivated.

Highlights: Muscle building, endurance training, group sessions, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Dance, Strength Training, Friendly atmosphere, high-quality equipment, coaching sessions

D Mayor is a well-established gym that combines expert coaching with state-of-the-art facilities. From weightlifting and cardio to specialized boot camps, this gym provides a structured environment where you can achieve your goals effectively. 

Location: 32 P.O.W. Mafemi Cres, Utako, AMAC 900108, Abuja

Highlights: Muscle building, endurance training, group sessions, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Strength Training, Expert coaching, boot camps and well-maintained facilities.

BodyLine Fitness Gym is known for its safe place for gym rookies and experts as well. It is well equipped with indoor and outdoor activities like volleyball and tennis. This gym attracts fitness enthusiasts who value flexibility and a comprehensive training environment.

Location: Ahmadu Bello Wy, Wuse 2, Abuja.

Highlights: Basketball, Boxing, Volleyball, Tennis, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Dance, Personal Training and Strength Training.

Evolve 360 is a popular fitness center known for its dynamic approach to training. Offering classes like Zumba, spin, and kickboxing, Evolve 360 provides a fun and energetic atmosphere for those looking to stay fit while having a good time.

Location: Plot 649 Franca Afegbua Cres, Gudu, Abuja

Highlights: Zumba, spin classes, kickboxing, Indoor and Outdoor Games, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Dance, Personal Training and Strength Training.

Palms Fitness Place is a gym with a range of classes and training programs including the Spin and step class, this gym provides a supportive environment where members can work on their fitness goals alongside friends and family.

Location: AMSSCO Platinum City, Galadimawa, Abuja

Highlights: Community-focused, supportive environment, accessible options, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Boxing / Martial Arts, Dance, Personal Training and Strength Training.

It is known for its high-intensity workouts and cutting-edge equipment, The Elite Hybrid Fitness Studio is ideal for those looking to challenge themselves. They offer personal training, functional fitness, and a range of classes designed to help members achieve strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Location: Shashilga Court, Ahmadu Bello Way, Kado, Abuja

Highlights: Functional fitness, modern equipment and personal trainers.

Maxfit Gyms is a well-equipped fitness center with a variety of classes and training programs. They offer group sessions, one-on-one coaching, and a strong focus on muscle building and endurance training. The gym has a supportive community, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned athletes.

Location: H&A Plaza, Plot 24, Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Wuye District

Highlights: Muscle building, endurance training, group sessions, Cardio Machines, Weights, Resistance Machine, Aerobics & Cardio, Dance and Strength Training.

Get Fit and Stay Healthy with the Best Gyms in Abuja

These top 10 gyms in Abuja cater to diverse fitness needs, providing unique facilities, expert guidance, and a welcoming environment. Whether you’re interested in strength training, group classes, or personal coaching, these gyms offer something for everyone.

Taking control of your health is easier than ever with Flance Pass

Top 10 Gyms in Abuja

The Collaboration Expands Access to Health, Wellness, and Financial Services for thousands of Technologists in Nigeria



Flance is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with 

, a global talent accelerator renowned for building remote engineering teams. This collaboration will introduce a comprehensive suite of health and wellness services to Andela’s extensive network of technologists.

Andela, supported by prestigious investors such as SoftBank and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, is dedicated to empowering technologists in emerging markets by connecting them with top companies around the world. Recognizing the unique needs of its network, especially the independent contractors who form a significant part, Andela has partnered with Flance to offer tailored wellness and financial tools that support the well-being and growth of its community.

Flance is devoted to improving the lives of modern workers by providing access to essential services that enhance well-being. Serving a broad audience—including freelancers, contractors, and businesses seeking valuable worker benefits—Flance connects workers with comprehensive health plans, discounted gym memberships, and financial wellness tools. Flance aims to empower workers to achieve their wellness goals and lead healthier, more prosperous lives.



Katherine Codlin, Partnerships Manager at Andela, stated:

“At Andela, our mission is to empower technologists with exceptional opportunities and resources for career growth. We chose to partner with Flance because of their commitment to supporting the health, well-being, and financial security of our Nigerian community. Together, we are fostering a holistic environment for our technologists to thrive, benefiting both our community and clients.”

Launching on September 23, 2024, this partnership will offer Andela technologists access to services on Flance’s marketplace, including health insurance plans, discounted gym memberships, and financial wellness tools at preferential rates. This initiative not only enhances the quality of life for Andela’s tech professionals but also positions both companies as champions of worker well-being.

"Flance is committed to ensuring that every professional, whether a contractor, freelancer or employee, has access to the vital services that enhance their well-being. Partnering with Andela is a key milestone in our mission to provide modern workers with the health, wellness, and financial resources they need to thrive", said 

This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of Flance and Andela to empower the global tech community by providing essential tools for personal and professional success. Both companies are excited about the potential impact of this partnership on the lives of technologists in Nigeria.



Ready to take worker retention to the next level?

Discover how Flance can transform the well-being and satisfaction of your contractors or employees. Reach out today to explore tailored solutions and start boosting your workforce’s loyalty and performance!

Flance and Andela Partner to Empower Tech Professionals With Comprehensive Wellness Tools

Are your workers getting the wellness support they need? Here is why it matters more than ever.

In today’s highly competitive job market, offering employee benefits is no longer an option but necessary for companies looking to attract and retain the best and most capable workers. Tech giants like Google, Amazon, NVIDIA, Meta, and Tesla are leading the way in recognizing the profound importance of employee benefits. These companies have not only invested heavily in wellness benefits such as health insurance, fitness, spa treatments, and retirement plans but have also pioneered innovative wellness initiatives. Let’s explore why employee benefits are so crucial, using examples from the leaders in the tech industry today.

Why employee benefits are essential to your company’s growth

Employee benefits extend far beyond basic compensation and pension contributions. They represent a company’s commitment to the well-being of its workforce, creating a supportive environment that fosters loyalty, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. A comprehensive benefits package provides financial security, health and wellness resources, and perks that contribute to an employee's quality of life both at work and outside of work. Large companies like Tesla, Google, Nike, and other corporate powerhouses have wellness benefits that motivate their workers and create a positive work environment accelerating the companies' growth. Wellness programs can lead to healthier employees, reducing absenteeism and lowering healthcare costs by encouraging preventive care and healthier lifestyle choices leading to a boost in creativity. Healthier employees are often more productive. Wellness programs can reduce fatigue and improve focus, leading to better performance and efficiency at work which equals growth.

Wellness as a key factor in employee benefits

Wellness programs are increasingly becoming a cornerstone of employee benefits, especially in the tech sector where high-stress, fast-paced environments are the norm. Companies understand that healthy, happy employees are more productive, engaged, and loyal to their employers. This shift towards wellness reflects a broader cultural shift that values holistic well-being. Here are some top tech companies using wellness benefits as employee benefits:

 in wellness programs is a prime example of why. Google spends approximately $25,000 annually on benefits per employee. The company’s proactive approach to well-being has helped it build a reputation as one of the best places to work globally.


Google’s wellness benefits range from mental health support to fitness programs and healthy food options in the office.

Amazon, one of the largest companies in the world, understands the importance of supporting its workforce. In 2022, the company announced a nearly $1 billion investment in pay and benefits for its frontline employees. This 

 underscores Amazon's commitment to improving the quality of life for those working in challenging roles, focusing on health care, paid time off, and opportunities for career growth. For a company that employs over 1.5 million people, this is a critical step toward ensuring long-term employee satisfaction and retention. This allows them to have the best talents in the industry.

NVIDIA places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, offering top-tier medical insurance, mental health support, and fitness programs. The company invests up to 

 in wellness benefits per employee annually and is known for its 

. NVIDIA’s benefits package aligns with the company’s goal of maintaining a healthy, motivated workforce, especially in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

NVIDIA invests up to $3,000 in health/wellness benefits per employee annually.

Tesla, known for its fast-paced and innovative culture, provides its employees with 

 valued at around $7,200 per person annually. This includes health insurance, fitness programs, and various wellness initiatives aimed at reducing burnout and promoting work-life balance. While Tesla’s benefits may not be the most extensive, they are highly appreciated in an industry that demands long hours and intense focus.

The Competitive Advantage of Strong Employee Benefits

Companies that offer comprehensive benefits packages gain a significant competitive edge in recruitment and retention. A 

57% of job seekers consider benefits and perks to be a top factor when deciding on a job. 

Benefits also contribute to lower turnover rates and higher employee engagement, ultimately impacting a company’s bottom line.

Tech companies like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Tesla have set the standard for how organizations should approach employee well-being. By investing in wellness programs and other benefits, they have not only enhanced the lives of their employees but also built stronger, more resilient workforces. This focus on well-being has translated into higher productivity, more innovation, and a greater sense of loyalty among employees.

Employee benefits are an essential component of a thriving workplace. 

In a world where talent is a key differentiator, companies that prioritise their employees’ health and well-being are more likely to succeed. 

As evidenced by top tech companies, these investments in benefits pay off in terms of employee satisfaction, retention, and overall company performance. Whether through innovative wellness programs or traditional perks, providing comprehensive employee benefits is not just a nice-to-have but a strategic necessity.

Ready to take employee retention to the next level?

 can transform the well-being and satisfaction of your contractors or employees.

 to explore our unmatched health, fitness & wellness solutions and boost your workforce’s loyalty and performance.

The World’s Top Companies Invest in Employee Health and Wellness - Why Yours Should Too.

, a global leader in payroll and compliance for remote teams, has elevated its perks offering by featuring Flance on its global perks marketplace. This collaboration allows Deel’s remote team in Nigeria to easily discover and access a wide range of health, fitness/wellness, and financial management services, all designed to enhance their well-being and financial stability.

Flance’s presence on Deel’s global perks marketplace provides workers with:

: Workers can enroll in health insurance plans offered by Flance’s partners, ensuring they have access to essential healthcare services. This coverage provides peace of mind and contributes to overall well-being.

Comprehensive Fitness and Wellness Options

: Flance offers unparalleled access to a wide network of fitness and wellness centers across Nigeria. Workers can enjoy services at premier locations like Ecofitness, Sweatbox, and Best Body Gym, along with access to spas and swimming pools. With coverage in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Jos, and Calabar—and more cities being added—contractors have the flexibility to maintain their fitness and wellness routines wherever they are.

Flance also provides customized savings plans and access to certified tax advisory services for Contractors. Workers can effectively manage their finances, optimize their tax situations, and achieve better financial stability.

The comprehensive support provided by Flance’s health, fitness, and financial services leads to higher contractor satisfaction. Workers feel more valued and supported, contributing to a positive work experience.

: Access to a wide range of fitness and wellness options across Nigeria ensures that workers can maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, reducing stress and enhancing productivity.

: With tailored savings plans, workers are better equipped to manage their finances, leading to greater financial security and preparedness for future expenses. 

: Featuring Flance on Deel’s global perks marketplace significantly enhances the benefits available to workers. This addition underscores Deel’s commitment to providing a well-rounded perks package that addresses the key needs of its global workforce.

Flance’s ongoing presence on Deel’s global perks marketplace expands the benefits available to Deel’s workers in Nigeria. By offering tailored health insurance, extensive fitness and wellness options, and comprehensive financial tools, Flance is helping to improve Deel’s remote teams’ health, well-being and financial security.

Flance Partners With Deel to Bring Unmatched Health & Wellness Benefits to Its Remote Team

Victor Ekwealor 

What exactly is ‘employee benefit’ and what does it constitute?


This is question that we get from many business owners and startup founders who are not exactly sure what it is.

The problem is not that they do not know per se, it’s just that it means so many different things that it seems to not mean anything in particular, so let’s attempt a definition and explanation.

Firstly, like the name implies, employee benefits, perks, or rewards are, unsurprisingly, benefits for employees.

The most succinct definition is from Wikipedia, and it says that “

Employee benefits and benefits in kind, also called fringe benefits, perquisites, or perks, include various types of non-wage compensation provided to employees in addition to their normal wages or salaries

In essence, any compensation given to people in active employ of any sorts that is different from their wages can be termed employee benefits, perks, or rewards.

The scope of employee benefits is extensive, covering multiple facets of the employee experience.

Some of the most popular ones that you may be familiar with are grouped under the umbrellas of health and wellness, financial incentives, retirement plans, and professional development. Collectively, these offerings contribute to fostering a sense of support and appreciation beyond the transactional nature of employment.

Now, let us elaborate on the aforementioned umbrellas a bit and get an even deeper understanding of what they entail.

There is a popular Latin saying we are all familiar with, “mens sana in corpore sano” which translates to “a healthy body can sustain a healthy mind”, or as we popularly know it, “a healthy mind is a healthy body.”

This means that health and wellness are understandably the most crucial of all the employee benefit segmentations that exist. Benefits in this category are typically comprehensive insurance coverages for medical, dental, and vision.

Additionally, wellness programs go beyond traditional healthcare, incorporating initiatives such as fitness programs, mental health resources, and preventive health measures. Mental wellness programs have become even more popular with the increase in mental health conditions, which the World Health Organisation(WHO) has increased by 25% since the pandemic.

Employee benefits extend into the financial realm, providing a sense of security and stability. The financial part of benefits are usually the most popular and easiest as there are usually no complications with them.

Retirement plans, like 401(k), pension schemes, and retirement savings, and the different names they are known by across the world, offer employees opportunities to plan for their financial future.

Employee Stock Options (ESO) or equity participation are financial plans that align employees with the overall performance of the organisation and have become very popular over the last few years, especially with startups. These financial benefits not only support individual well-being but also cultivate a sense of commitment and loyalty to the organisation.

In line with bolstering mental health and ensuring work does not become too much drudgery, a lot of initiatives now exist to accommodate a harmonious work-life balance, employee benefits often include provisions for flexible work arrangements like hybrid or fully remote work options.

Paid time off (PTO) allows employees to take vacations, holidays, and personal days are also quite popular in this category. Generally, they accommodate the diverse lifestyles and responsibilities of employees.

Investing in the continuous learning and development of the workforce is a crucial aspect of employee benefits. Like the earlier mentioned health and wellness options, professional development can tie in directly to the business’ bottomline.