We are Stepping it Up with a Wellness Program

Now that the indulgence of Mardi Gras & Fat Tuesday are behind us (no pun intended), we are stepping it up with a walking wellness program. We’ve chosen Icount by WalkStyles  which has 10 simple steps to a healthy life.  Icount focuses on the importance of keeping the body moving. During the 12-week Icount program, individuals set their step goals, count their steps with a pedometer, and record the steps on the WalkStyles website to track their progress.

“We are excited about 2015 and feel that our company’s health relies on our team’s health. I am confident the program by Sue Parks WalkStyles has launched our team in the right direction,” says Kathy Dawson, owner of Dawson & Dawson. “Icount offers a team approach to moving your body to stay healthy. We even purchased a ‘buddy’ for each person to help them stay motivated. We have 100% participation, which is unheard of! Dawson & Dawson just works that way…it’s all or nothing for the quality of our candidates and our lives.”

Since the majority of our waking hours are spent at the workplace many of our choices about fitness and nutrition are at work. A wellness program doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to implement.

On average, a person will take about 3,000 steps going about their regular routine. The American Heart Association encourages us to start walking now to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for heart disease. Stepping it up to 10,000 roughly equates to the Surgeon General’s recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise.  With Icount our team has already seen benefits beyond the expected physical fitness.

“The wellness program has made everyone realize the importance of being more active”, said Business Development Manager Kris Barry.”The energy in the office is rather exhilarating since D&D started the program. It is nice to have a supportive work environment and colleagues to keep you motivated and engaged.”

“The wellness program has been amazing! Not only has it been the vessel to jump start me into healthy living by eating better and exercising daily, but has brought a special and cherished focus time with my husband.”says Area Manager, Gina Brehmer.”It is healthy not only for our wellbeing, but also for our marriage of 37 years. What more can I ask for?”

It follows that  a healthier workforce is a happier workforce. If you are not ready to roll-out a corporate wellness program, here are few simple ways to encourage healthier lifestyles in the workplace:

• Add healthy options in vending machines
• Set up a walking club before or after work
• Start a pedometer challenge with a goal of 10,000 steps a day
• Provide a safe place to store bikes in the office
• Encourage employees to take the stairs
• Buy healthy food for meetings instead of junk food