The Advantages of a Corporate Fitness Program – by Chris Seymour

This is a topic so widely covered and documented in the US, but so poorly covered in South Africa. Perhaps it is because we are inherently more active than the general American population. Irrespective to this, there are millions of RANDS lost annually due to absenteeism and/or reduced productivity. The key component of health & wellness programs is physical fitness, which not only increases cardiovascular and muscle strength, but also drastically helps to decrease the instances of diseases and conditions and the related work issues caused by these problems. If companies were to punch in the numbers, they would realize that group physical fitness directly translates into a healthy productivity and in turn – fiscal fitness! This articles aim is to merely point out the benefits to both individual and corporation in setting up a CORPORATE FITNESS PROGRAM.

Decreased Absenteeism

Millions of work days are lost annually to something as simple as lower back pain! One80’s functional style of training continually involves the use of the core, thus strengthening and conditioning the lower back and reducing the risk of lower back pain. Another common reason for absenteeism is the common cold. One of the most prevalent feedbacks I get from my clients is the incredible increase they have in their immune system after they begin an exercise program, and thus the reduced amount of times they suffer from illnesses (translating into days off work).

Lower Health Care Costs

Businesses with wellness programs often see a reduction in health insurance and worker’s compensation premiums and claims. After Union Pacific Railroad (an American company) initiated its self-care initiative, it lowered employee health care costs more than 17 percent during its first five years. The 57,000-employee company estimated savings of $1.26 million (R8.44million) and a return on investment of $2.77 (R18.56million) for every dollar spent during the program’s first year. Lincoln Plating estimates its first-year ROI was $800,000 (R5.36million) in reduced worker’s compensation costs.

Increased Productivity

For starters, employees are unable to produce if they are not at work! Problems such as lower back pain, poor physical fitness and fatigue just add to low productivity. Lower productivity directly relates to profit margins. Imagine a rugby team with only 12 guys playing hard and the remaining 3 guys walking around the field – what do you think the outcome of that game will be?!

To enquire about our specially structured CORPOTATE FITNESS PROGRAMS, contact Candice on candice@one80.co.za. The question should not be, “Can I afford it?” It should be, “Can I afford not to?!”

Reference: www.livestrong.com