by Ondine Brooks Kuraoka

We feel better when we feel fit. The benefits of physical fitness extend to all areas of our lives, including the workplace. Many employers have taken steps to encourage a commitment to staff fitness. Some companies have on-site dressing rooms and showers to encourage biking to work or mid-day jogging breaks, while others have the resources to provide fitness classes or gym memberships.

Among the benefits of a higher level of employee fitness are:
• reduced absenteeism due to illness
• greater self-confidence, which translates into a willingness to accept greater challenges and leadership
• a more energetic workforce with the ripple effect of a positive, “feel-good” environment
• decreased employee turnover due to staff feeling under appreciated; employees feel that the company cares for their well-being.