Benefiting from office wellness programs By Mitch Felipe Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 20:58:00 10/06/2008
MANILA, Philippines—Why does an unhealthy lifestyle lead to obesity? Can this be attributed to your job and the people you work with?
Zeny Mejias, 30, promotion and sales reporting analyst from United Laboratories (Unilab) Philippines, lost 23 pounds after her company's six-month lifestyle-modification program. She also won the title Miss Fit and Fab 2008. How did she do it?
Mejias said a lifestyle-modification program in the office works well for someone busy like she is. From the start, she's been motivated to be a role model to co-employees.
As she lost weight, she got positive feedback. This boosted her self-confidence and motivated her to improve her lifestyle in all aspects.
After six months, she exceeded the program's expected 10-percent weight loss by 5 percent and her test results on strength, cardio and flexibility were excellent.
Asked for tips, she said, "Be happy while losing weight. It's difficult at the start, but nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself. Support from friends, family and co-workers is very important. Do physical activities you enjoy most and compatible with your lifestyle. Food deprivation will never work."
Workplace wellness
Studies have shown that having workplace wellness programs can reduce absenteeism, improve employee retention, productivity, performance and lower health care and insurance costs.
Since full-time employees usually spend eight hours at work, half of their waking hours is spent in the workplace. This shows how a work environment can greatly influence lifestyle habits.
After Unilab's six-month lifestyle-modification program, the 63 participants lost a total of 773 pounds, which is 7.22 percent weight loss from their combined initial body weight.
Jack Orendain, head of Unilab's employee relations group, noticed how hard work, discipline and focus were manifested by participants on their job. Ness Mendiola, organizational development specialist and program organizer, said, "Aside from weight loss, I've seen how they increased their self-confidence and positive outlook. Participants attested that they became more energetic and motivated."
Start wellness workplace programs now.
Corporate health club memberships are offered by fitness centers where discounted rates are given a number of employees.
Monthly wellness lectures can educate employees on eating healthy, increasing physical activities, managing time and stress, and alcohol and smoking cessation.
Regular health screenings will increase employees' awareness of their condition and inspire them to do something about their lifestyle.
Company wellness events-sports fest, dance marathon and mini Olympics-can be done monthly or quarterly.
Organize weight loss competitions, focusing more on lifestyle changes than cash incentives.
A health club will encourage more employees to exercise more because it is accessible.
Classes on dance or martial arts can be held in the company's studio or spacious conference rooms.
E-mail the author at mitchfelipe@gmail.com
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