Enhancing Quality of Life from 9 to 5 and Beyond

While we know the benefits of exercise for lowering the risk of various diseases, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found in 2009 that more than 50% of American adults still do not get enough exercise. The WHIP Act (Workforce Health Improvement Program) was introduced in 2007 in an effort to make employee wellness and exercise programs tax free. While the economy led to the reduction of various types of programs and departments including worksite wellness programs, more companies are now realizing the benefits of corporate wellness. In a study from Harvard, medical costs can decrease by about $3.27 for every dollar spent on worksite wellness and disease prevention. Absenteeism costs also declined by about $2.73 for every dollar spent. In 2006, 19% of companies with 500 or more employees offered some type of wellness program. In 2008, that number jumped to 77%. The top 12 health care concerns that negatively impact work productivity were allergies, arthritis, asthma, cancer, depression, diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, headaches, respiratory disorders, skin conditions, and back/neck/spinal injuries. Due to this, more city agencies such as police and fire departments, government agencies, public schools and universities are hiring health and fitness professionals to create and offer prevention programs. In addition to opening up more career opportunities for health and fitness professionals, a study by MetLife found that nearly half of employers and 58% of employees report increased productivity and employee satisfaction. Carosone, Nikki, MS, cPT. The Evolution of Worksite Wellness: Enhancing Quality of Life From 9 to 5 and Beyond. American College of Sports Medicine Certified News, July-Sept 2010, Vol. 20, Issue 3. pp. 14-16

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