With health care costs continuing to rise, one of the best investments a
company can make is in its employees' wellness. At least 25% of the health care
costs incurred by working adults is attributed to behavior that can be modified,
including poor diet and lack of physical activity.
Regular physical activity -- at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity level
activity (equal to a brisk walk) on 5 or more days per week -- can improve blood
cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reduce blood sugar, and boost confidence
and self-esteem. Having trouble fitting 30 minute sessions into your busy
lifestyle? Then, break it up into activity blocks of at least 10 minutes each.
In addition to the physical health benefits, regular activity also enhances mood
and performance, while reducing stress and helping to improve concentration.
More than half (54%) of U.S. adults do not get the suggested minimum amount
of daily exercise. Since most adults spend half of their waking hours at work,
offering workplace physical activity opportunities and programs can help
employees become more active. Research shows that worksites with physical
activity programs have :
Reduced employer health care costs by up to 55%
Reduced short-term sick leave by up to 32%
Increased productivity by up to 52%
Keep it simple!
The most effective on-the-job programs tend to be simple and inexpensive,
contain an incentive/goal/reward, and encourage participants to have fun! How do
other companies creatively promote physical activity?
Take the Stairs Challenge (Aurora Sinai Medical Center has added music
to the stairwells, converting them into “mini-gyms”)
Coffee and lunchtime walks either around the building or the block
Team participation in charity 5K run/walks
Chart your individual mileage (or make it a team effort) on a map
displayed in an employee area. Award an amazing prize to the first
person/team to arrive at the pre-determined destination (ie, Milwaukee to
Disney World in Orland)
On-site fitness/exercise classes, workshops, facility with equipment and
showers
Corporate memberships to local health clubs/gyms
Walking scavenger hunt
Encourage employees to park “away” from the front door
Seasonal sports challenges
Office Olympics
Raffle tickets tied to steps walked. For every day that an employee
walks 10,000 steps, their name is included in a drawing for gift
certificates to a fitness store, an iPod or other items related to physical
fitness.
Look for opportunities to be active throughout your workday.
Why get moving?
More than half (54%) of U.S. adults do not get the suggested minimum amount
of daily exercise. Since most adults spend half of their waking hours at work,
offering workplace physical activity opportunities and programs can help
employees become more active. Research shows that worksites with physical
activity programs have : 
Keep it simple! 