Companies are increasingly implementing robust health and wellness programs to improve employee health and motivation in the workplace. Some businesses begin with one program and gradually expand to other areas of health and wellness. This continued concern on the part of businesses may increase employee job satisfaction and, consequently, motivation.

Health Fairs

Health fairs are large events sponsored by a business or businesses that provide biometric screenings for employees, which include cholesterol testing, glucose level testing, blood pressure monitoring and body fat percentage screening. Many times, these health fairs represent the only time certain employees will have these essential tests performed. These programs are professionally run; health care providers work the booths at the fair and talk to employees about preventive health measures. Practitioners often give out promotional materials with contact information printed on them in the form of pedometers, sanitizing gel, exercise bands and fitness pamphlets.

Smoking Cessation

An estimated 46 million Americans smoked in 2008 and cost U.S. businesses millions of dollars in lost productivity, according to the American Lung Association. A businesses with a high percentage of smokers often implement smoking cessation programs to help employees quit smoking. These programs offer group counseling for smokers, online support forums and progress charts as well as documentation containing information about adverse health effects of smoking. Employees who find success quitting by participating in these programs may have increased energy levels and improved motivation toward work.

Fitness Program

Fit employees produce more for their companies, miss less work and have increased job satisfaction. Employee fitness programs should offer flexibility and fun. Flexible programs encourage employees to “just do something.” This attitude allows employees to decide for themselves what activities excite them the most. Some may enjoy walking, others running or biking, still others may connect better when engaged in a structured course, such as yoga. Organizers might place enticing promotional materials around the business, offer prizes and encouraging emails to participants as well. When participants see the elements of fun and flexibility, they may be more inclined to participate on a regular basis.