How Might an Exercise Program Improve the Health & Job Satisfaction of a Worker?

Workplace exercise programs are about more than just reducing healthcare costs or improving productivity. For the employees who take part, improved health and well-being help create a "benefit cycle" where both the business and the employees reap short- and long-term rewards. The best part is that workplace exercise programs do not need to be difficult or costly to set up and run.

Why Exercise?

• Exercise is about more than just bulking up your muscles or preparing for a marathon. In fact, exercise does not need to be more than taking a walk for half an hour. Any exercise routine helps improve your cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels and aids in maintaining a healthy weight. With a regular exercise routine, people notice their clothes fit better, their endurance improves and they take fewer sick days from work.

Benefits of an Exercise Program

• In addition to the numerous health benefits of an exercise program, businesses often report greater savings and productivity. On average, businesses that establish a workplace wellness program see a return on investment of almost $4 for every dollar spent. The ROI comes in the form of lowered health insurance costs, improved productivity and fewer sick days. In addition, companies such as L.L. Bean have seen a reduction in smoking levels among employees, and fewer on-the-job injuries.

Employee Health & Happiness

• Fewer sick days and workplace injuries definitely contribute to employee happiness. Exercise causes your body to release so-called "feel good" hormones. Endorphins are released any time people engage in low to moderate intensity exercise. These hormones help reduce stress levels as well as offer a much-needed break in the daily routine for employees. This builds on the benefit cycle, reaping rewards for the business as well as the employees.

Types of Exercises

• Common forms of workplace exercise routines can include a regular five-minute daily stretching program, lunchtime walking groups or subsidized memberships at a local gym. Employers can also encourage office employees to stand frequently during the work day rather than sit, and encourage employees to walk over to talk with a coworker rather than use email or the telephone. Even taking the stairs and parking further away from the office can bring some physical activity. Small changes in workplace behaviors can add up to big rewards.

Getting Started

• Before establishing a workplace exercise program, managers should ask employees what type of programs they would like to see. Workers may not be interested in getting outside to walk at lunch, but may want a regular stretching program done several times a day. Additionally, by surveying the employees to gauge their interests, managers may identify employees with experience working with exercise and wellness programs; these employees may be able to help coordinate and run a program.