Physical Activity Programs for Staff

Why Worksite Staff Fitness Programs?

In order to combat such an inactivity epidemic, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) highlights physical activity in its Healthy People 2020 publication. Among other recommendations, the DHHS specifically addresses the importance of offering workplace exercise facilities or fitness programs. According to Healthy People 2020, “workplaces (schools) should provide employees with on-site wellness centers staffed with fitness professionals who can provide safe, effective fitness routines.” Although the focus is on all worksites, schools and districts should consider offering some type of physical activity program for employees. A 2006 study sponsored by the American Council on Exercise (ACE), found secretaries and teachers averaged the lowest number of steps per working day, when compared to eight other occupations. Secretaries averaged only 4,300 steps, while teachers averaged slightly more at 4,720 steps. The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports lists several benefits of providing employer-based fitness programs. First, worksite fitness programs can increase participants' fitness levels and improve the overall health of those involved. This, in turn, can result in reduced employer costs and reduced insurance premiums, disability benefits, and other medical expenses. Furthermore, research also indicate that employees who participate in physical fitness programs are often more productive and are absent less often. A 2006 study found employees who participated in leisure-time physical activity at least 2 days per week used less sick leave than employees who were only active 1 day per week or never active. Although most of the difference was related to musculoskeletal disorders, other correlations have also been made between physical activity and fighting colds. One researcher discovered it may be possible to ward off a winter cold by engaging in regular physical activity. The study found that those who exercised more frequently experienced fewer upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). In fact, participants who exercised 5 or more days per week were 43% less likely to have symptoms of URTI than those who only engaged in physical activity 1 day per week. Additionally, the President's Council lists improved morale as a benefit of offering fitness programs to staff.

Recommendations and Benefits for Participants

According to the President's Council, adults 18 years and older should get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on 5 or more days of the week for general health. While participating in 30 minutes of uninterrupted physical activity has advantages, breaking activity up into smaller segments can also be beneficial. The council notes that being moderately active throughout the week can reduce one's risk for developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also highlighted several benefits of staying active in its 2008 publication Physical Inactivity Estimates,[Page 443]by County. In addition to the aforementioned, the CDC lists controlling one's weight, strengthening bones and muscles, and improved mental health as other advantages of engaging in daily physical activity. In fact, the Mayo Clinic published an article outlining the mental health benefits of exercise. According to the article, exercise helps the brain release feel-good chemicals (neurotransmitters and endorphins) that may ease symptoms of depression. Physical activity can also reduce immune system chemicals that have been shown to worsen depression.

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