Execucise - employee wellness programs

American Fitness, March-April, 1993 by Troy E. DeMond

The concept of fitness has widened as we've entered the '90s. America's annual health care costs per capita may reach approximately $5,551 by the year 2000. It's been estimated the majority of this money will be spent treating preventable disease.

Many companies have discovered the costs incurred by poor fitness and, as a result, have introduced health promotion programs. Worksite fitness programs are credited with saving money by increasing employee productivity and morale, and essentially promoting a healthier lifestyle among employees. According to The Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA), more than two thirds of America's businesses with 50 or more employees have some form of health promotion programs.

Benefits of "Fit" Employees

Unhealthy workers can cost time and money. A recent study suggests employees with active lifestyles cost a company considerably less in medical claims compared to inactive employees--an average of $67 for "fit" individuals as opposed to $778 for "unfit" ones. The study also found the following:

* Smokers have 18% higher medical costs than non-smokers.

* Workers who are extremely overweight often have 50% more medical claims exceeding $5,000 in one year, due to related health problems.

* Absenteeism for exercisers averages 50-60% lower than for sedentary employees.

* Inactive persons spend 30% more time in the hospital than those who exercise.

Skeptics Breed Controversy

Although the benefits of health promotion programs have been well studied, many company heads still cannot seem to justify implementing worksite wellness programs. They balk at high start-up costs and the lack of information available citing actual dollar savings. Unconvinced company heads have argued that changing people's lifestyles involves more than implementing employee fitness programs. Failing to see financial benefits, skeptical and budget-wary businesses are reluctant to invest money in programs. In order to convince such CEOs to implement programs it is necessary they understand the long-term benefits and not just the immediate dollar return.

The Wellness Message

Fitness programs offer employees psychological benefits as an additional effect of physical well-being. Advocates of worksite programs say these programs send a strong message to employees: the company cares about employee health and well-being. Even if programs cost companies money, employers may consider the cost an investment in productivity by helping to attract and retain good employees. Offering a comprehensive fitness program can do great things for staff loyalty, morale and as a result, motivation.

A company CEO toying with the idea of creating a fitness program for employees should be encouraged with input and enthusiasm from those who will benefit most--employees themselves. Striving to create a culture that encourages healthy behavior and taking action to improve health programs are national goals of the '90s. Corporate-sponsored wellness can ensure only positive results for America's workforce and, eventually, the entire nation.