
Smart companies know that healthy, happy employees have fewer sick days, resulting in reduced loss of productivity. Healthy employees are also more productive. Having corporate wellness programs in place can also result in lower health insurance coverage costs.
How Do I Start A Corporate Wellness Program?
First off, you don't need to be a huge corporation to have a wellness program. Even a small business can set a program in place to encourage a healthy lifestyle for its employees. Some businesses offer their employees free or discounted gym memberships. If you want to learn more about offering discounted gym memberships, talk to your health insurance provider. They may have programs that offset your costs, or offer a discount on your insurance premiums. Some even have their own gyms. However, a truly effective way to increase health and fitness for employees is to create a culture that encourages it.
Creating this culture can be done in a number of ways. Most people are more likely to begin exercising or eating right if they have support. Create fitness challenges, for example. Employees who are looking to lose weight or get in shape can participate and whoever meets their goal or whoever makes the most progress wins a prize. There are plenty of ways for employers to "gamify" exercise and nutrition goals.These types of activities promote friendly competition, encouragement and a sense of community.
Encourage employees to participate in a local 5K, or start a company sports team. Replace the junk food vending machines with healthy choices. Encourage walking breaks. Make it fun and social. When employees are in it together, there can be amazing results. These are ways to create a company culture that promotes healthy lifestyle choices, which will result in a healthier, happier and more positive workplace. The ultimate result will be increased productivity and lowered instances of illness that results in sick days. It is a win-win situation.
How Can I Get Help To Start A Corporate Wellness Program?
If your company is interested in corporate wellness programs, but doesn't know where to start, the Downtown Athletic Club can help. One of our personal trainers can come to your place of business for a Lunch and Learn presentation that can educate employees on nutrition and fitness, and help counsel your business on the best ways to start a corporate wellness program tailored to the needs of your employees. We can also host the Lunch and Learn at the Downtown Athletic Club or another location of your choice.