The growing need for a fit and healthy workplace has never been more apparent than it is today. Many companies both in New Zealand and overseas are looking at Health and Wellness programs as a means to improving profit and creating a fit, happy and ever productive workforce.
A well thought out, multi-component program has been shown to bring good positive benefits to any company’s bottom line and perhaps more importantly, the staff and employees.
The benefits below, but not limited to these, have been well researched. Studies have shown a direct return on investment from a well implemented Health and Wellness program. A healthier workplace is a more fun, safe, sociable and profitable environment.
- Absenteeism and Productivity - Employee absenteeism reduces productivity, therefore increasing costs for employers. An effective health and wellness program can reduce employee absenteeism, and from this, improve productivity.
- Return on Investment - Most of the research studies on the financial benefits of workplace health and wellness programs have been undertaken in USA. Even with the difference between New Zealand and the US, these studies do illustrate a direct link between employee health, employee productivity and bottom line performance.
- Morale - Studies show that in-house health and fitness programs contribute to significant positive changes in employee attitudes toward the company, commitment, co-workers and supervisors, working conditions, job competence and job security. In addition, employee attitudes toward personal health behaviors’ improve.
- Accident and Injury Prevention - Fitness and health promotion programs reduce rates of injury. They impact on behaviors’ leading to injuries and reduce the overall costs of injury.
- Health - Health risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and obesity have a definite negative influence on an individual's health. Many studies have shown that people who participate in workplace health programs are able to significantly reduce their health risks.
If you have any further questions regarding Health and Wellness programs for your company please contact Dave Margison via email dave@workout.co.nz, or by phone on 021 865 478.
