meet the needs of working people.

Start A Company Wellness Program

Starting a wellness program in your company has never been easier, and, with rising health care costs, it’s never been more important.

Healthy employees are good for business. Research indicates that fit employees are more productive, happier about their work and less prone to absenteeism. In addition, they are less likely to be disabled on the job, less likely to use their health insurance, and they recover faster after illness.

A wellness program should be designed to improve fitness and reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The program should increase your employees’ energy, boost morale and help control weight. A business investment in a wellness program will pay off with savings in health care and benefit programs.

In addition, a company wellness program that includes membership in facilities where employees can work out also improves the social atmosphere of the work place--and the morale of employees. It provides opportunities for networking through athletics, social events and educational programs. Such a company wellness program offers the chance to have fun, share the benefits of good health with co-workers and involve other family members.

These benefits are not lost on employees who correctly perceive them as signs that management values them.

Employee wellness programs may also include fitness screenings and classes, CPR and First Aid Certifications, therapy and rehabilitation, weight training, behavior modification and treatment programs, as well as opportunities to interact with family members in a wholesome environment.

Work with a reputable health and fitness facility to develop a wellness program to promote a healthy lifestyle for your employees.

Theresa LaMotte is executive director of the Howard County Family YMCA in Ellicott City. She can be reached at 410-465-4334.