Working in the hospitality industry can certainly be seen as professional sports, and Anne and Rieks know all about it! At Café Willem Albert in The Market Hotel Groningen, they work hard to provide their guests with an amazing experience.

We spoke to them about how intense their workday is and how they experience it: is working in hospitality really comparable to sports? They were given a pedometer to track their steps during a workday. Curious about how many steps they took and how they feel about their work? Read on!

Anne Brommer – 22,407 steps

Do you see working in hospitality as professional sports?

"Yes, absolutely! I often hear colleagues say: 'Well, my workout is done for the day!' And that's really true. At the end of my shift, I often feel a burn in my arms and legs. We walk a lot, carry heavy trays, and clean the terrace. So, you can skip the gym after a workday!"

Has working in hospitality made you fitter?

"Definitely! I'm walking all day and working long hours, so it certainly helps to stay fit. Plus, I'm not standing by the cookie jar at home, haha. But hospitality can also be very exhausting, especially because the working hours are so flexible, and sometimes it messes with your sleep rhythm. Luckily, the work makes up for it!"

What does a typical workday look like for you?

"I usually come in an hour early because I don't like rushing. Then I change, check the schedule, and chat with my colleagues. During the day, I'm everywhere: I help colleagues, train new people, consult with other managers, and am constantly on the move. No time to sit still!"

How many steps do you think you take on a workday?

"Phew, on a busy summer day, I'd say between 12,000 and 18,000 steps. I'm always walking around, which is perfect to keep track of things and help colleagues when needed."

After using the pedometer: did you expect this actual number?

"Wow, 22,407 steps! I had a shift from afternoon to evening, and yes, it was busy. But that many steps?! That usually only happens on the busiest days. I delivered a lot of trays and plates. The more guests, the more movement – and that's what makes it so fun!"

What is your favorite moment in your hospitality career?

"Actually, there are two: The 'Vrienden van Amstel LIVE' with WestCord and our New Year's Eve party at the hotel. Both were so amazing! The atmosphere, the team, it was really enjoyable and unforgettable to work!"

Rieks Potze – 20,000+ steps

Do you see working in hospitality as professional sports?

"Yes, for sure! Just like professional sports, you're constantly aware of everything around you. Being conscious of your surroundings, making quick decisions, and especially pushing through when it's busier than expected. You always have to be ready to give that extra push."

Has working in hospitality made you fitter?

"Yes and no. It's a sport in itself: you're moving all day, lifting a lot, and taking many steps. On the other hand, I used to exercise more alongside my work, but after a busy day, I’m less likely to go for a run than when I’ve moved less."

What does a typical workday look like for you?

"I'll explain a closing shift as an example. I usually start around 4:00 PM, check the emails and the schedule for the next day, and ensure everything is ready for the evening. From 5:00 PM, I make sure the day shift hands over properly, and the closing shift runs smoothly. Around 9:00 PM, the breaks start, and after that, the real work begins! Everyone is a bit tired, so it’s my task to keep the team motivated. I help with cleaning up, close the register, and make sure everything is in order before we can enjoy a well-deserved beer!"

How many steps do you think you take on a workday?

"I think it’s around 20,000 steps. It’s a large restaurant with a big terrace, so I walk a lot."

After using the pedometer: did you expect this actual number?

"Maybe a bit less than I thought! On some days, I exceed 20,000 steps, but on others, I stay around 15,000. Quite a big difference for one workday!"

What is your favorite moment in your hospitality career? 

"That's a tough one! I really enjoy those moments when I serve a table from arrival to departure and see that they’re having a good time. I get so much energy from that! Also, when the staff has a great evening because that always shines through to the guests."