EMPHASIS ON CORPORATE FITNESS PAYS OFF

Today the focus is on health reform. How can America extend services to all citizens and still pay for it? And while our nation wrestles with how to pay for the sick, corporate America continues to focus on helping employees become healthier. Workplace wellness is a growing trend, and one that businesses should be proud of.

Across the country, executives are installing treadmills, exercise bikes, and other machines as part of their corporate furnishings. Studies have shown that preventive medicine is far less expensive than treating an illness. And it can pay off in lowered worker absentee rates and improved production.

A study by Coors Brewing Co. indicated that for every dollar invested in health programs, a company receives a return of $6.15. That's a considerable savings, enough to pique the interest of large and small businesses.

And the focus on exercise and diet is paying off for Americans. Studies indicate that millions of us exercise at least three times a week.

Leading the corporation fitness movement locally are St. Francis Medical Center, Southeast Missouri Hospital and Health Service Corporation of America (HSCA). The hospitals have long promoted wellness programs to both employees and community residents. HSCA is in the process of opening an on-site fitness facility in its new headquarters. Universal Physique has become increasingly active in corporate assessments and will be moving into on-site workout programs. Many businesses around town offer corporate rates at area health clubs.

Workplace fitness is more than just a passing trend. Surveys indicate that more than 80 percent of corporations with over 750 employees offer on-site physical fitness centers. That percentage is up from just 50 percent in 1985. Even the companies with more than 250 workers are jumping on the bandwagon. About 65 percent of these have on-site centers, compared to only 32 percent in 1985.

The investment is considerable. Many of these companies funnel large amounts of money into equipment and programs to keep workers healthy. It represents a company investment not just in equipment, but in people. And that nurturing also pays off in employee mental health as well. Workers know that their employers care about them in more ways than one.

More businesses should consider jumping on the wellness bandwagon. It's an investment in employees that should pay off in reduced overall medical costs and improved performance.