Kenna Williams
Interactive Marketing
- May 6, 2010 • 6:29 pm PDT
- 3 responses
Yesterday GOOD asked, "What physical activities do you do to stay healthy?"
Today GOOD asks, "How do you release stress?"
My answer to both questions is the same: our company-sponsored fitness program.
We trade in business suits for sportswear four days during the work week, when our company brings in a trainer from Cross Fit Central to lead a "bootcamp" style workout in our office parking lot. The bootcamp is an hour-long combination of calisthenics, cardio, and weights. We are also encouraged to keep food logs and have access to a nutritionist.
Here quarterly reports aren't limited to financial statements. Four times a year we are pinched, measured and weighed so we can individually track our progress. In fact, next week is the weigh in for our Summer Meltdown Challenge (our version of the" Biggest Loser"), complete with prize incentives.
This program builds in accountability (aka positive peer pressure) through my coworkers. Basically, I have no excuse not to work out.
I've personally seen great results from the bootcamps. Not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. Especially on my most stressful days, I never regret taking an hour break to workout (even if it means I have to stay later). The physical exertion resets my mind and attitude, and my stress levels go down.
From the company's perspective, the employees are healthier, more productive, take less sick days and have lower health insurance costs. The workouts also improve company morale. The playing field is leveled and office politics are put aside. Employees of all ages and titles sweat it out on the asphalt, endorphins flow, and energy levels throughout the office increase.
It's a unique (bizarre?) office benefit, but it might be the most beneficial.
