Networking gets physical with sweatworking event

A South Yorkshire business group is shaking up traditional networking with a high-energy alternative designed to get professionals moving while making new connections.

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber has introduced ‘sweatworking’, a concept first pioneered in the US that swaps coffee and small talk for workouts and goal-setting. 

The first event, held at Everlast Gym in Rotherham, saw over 20 participants take part in a spin class before cooling down with fresh smoothies and post-workout networking.

Shane Young, operations director at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said:

“For many, the prospect of walking into a room full of strangers with a hand full of business cards can be a daunting one. 

“Our sweatworking event illustrated that business success and physical wellbeing can often go hand in hand. 

“Whether it’s turning up the heat in a spin class or working towards a business goal, both require planning, commitment and sometimes a willingness to challenge our comfort zones.

“The energy and enthusiasm on the day was incredible, and I hope that we’ve illustrated that networking is built upon forging real connections and that is often driven through the experiences we share. 

“Judging by the incredible response we received from this event, I’m sure that sweatworking won’t be a one off in the Chamber events calendar.”

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