Countless businesses have their own workplace wellness programs. Employees can participate in these programs if they wish with companies providing incentives to make them more attractive. For example, they might offer cash incentives for completion or top performance. They could also offer merchandise or lower premium contributions. Various activities can be used to improve health and wellness including weight loss challenges, smoking cessation programs, race participation, and step challenge. The last one is quite popular since it only involves walking which does not require special abilities or preparations. It simply pushes people to get up from their desks more and increase their activity level. This kind of program is beneficial in the following ways:
Disease Prevention
Disease prevention is always better than cure. The risk of disease increases with inactivity which many office workers tend to exhibit. They are used to staying on the desks all day in an attempt to finish all of their work on time. While their dedication is admirable, they should not neglect their health as this will pose problems in the long run. Simply walking more every day can help them increase their blood circulation, lower their weight, prevent muscle aches, and strengthen bones. All of these will make them feel better for longer and help them avoid costly diseases.
Stress Management
Working all day without breaks may seem like it would boost productivity but it actually does the opposite. There might be an initial rise in work output but individuals will feel burnt out sooner or later after pushing their limits for an extended period. Their stress levels will shoot through the roof and they will find it hard to get back their flow. Instead, there should be frequent breaks. They should be encouraged to step away from their desks and walk around for health and socialization. This will help in reducing their stress and keeping their minds fresh. People can also make it a habit to walk more after shift and on weekends to clear their heads. Once they see the benefits, they might keep doing it even without external incentives.
Employee Engagement
The step challenge, in which employees try to reach a certain numerical goal each day or each week, can help increase employee engagement. They will quickly see the merits of the program with effective messaging. They will appreciate the efforts of the company to look after its workers. Team-based incentives will make members work together to achieve their common goal. They will learn to rely and trust each other. They can have friendly competitions with other teams and push each other towards better outcomes.