by Lisa Snider

Created on: June 05, 2008

Exercise well-suited for the workplace
Corporate fitness and wellness programs make for healthy, happy, productive employees

An employee wellness program should be an integral part of any successful organization's employee benefits plan, because, after all, when employees are healthy, they are not only happy, they're productive. And productive employees make for a healthy bottom line.

My husband's boss recently inspired his employees to get into shape. His words were well chosen and from the heart, with a motivational speech that went something like this, "You're all fat, so I've signed you up for a marathon!" Well, despite the seemingly harsh tone, it worked, and with stellar results. Now, four years later, the company's culture has shifted more positively to the promotion of fit, productive, thriving employees and my husband has become a true athlete with a fondness for oatmeal and raisins in the morning instead of a greasy McMuffin for breakfast.

With my own employer, it was a little different. In order for us to enjoy less expensive medical benefits and reduced workers' compensation rates, it became necessary to initiate a wellness program for the employees. We started a few months ago with a health assessment that included a questionnaire, fitness testing to record physical strength (push-ups and wall sits), flexibility and endurance (using a stair stepper), and a weigh-in. An online education tool was also made available to help individuals reach their fitness goals through exercise, nutrition and stress-busting tips.

Since then, it is becoming commonplace for my co-workers to take a walk during breaks and go for a quick gym workout at lunchtime. We even trade recipes for protein shakes and healthy snacks. Employees learn about fitness at all levels: mind/body, mental health, exercise, and physical health. Educational teleconferences that focus in on relevant fitness topics help employees stay motivated and health aware. Many even signed up for the local Corporate Games, which, despite the bruises and sore muscles, has created a sense of play and team pride.

Many organizations are beginning to realize the win-win benefits of a healthy workforce. If your company offers a wellness program, consider yourself lucky and make sure you are taking full advantage of it. If they don't, cut out this article and put it in the boss' in-box (along with an oatmeal packet)!

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