Workers Want Help From Employers In Losing Weight

With growing numbers of Americans on a quest to lose weight and improve their health, most employees say they would welcome help from their employers in achieving their weight loss, fitness, and other health-related goals, a recent study conducted by employee assistance program provider ComPsych concluded.

Responses from employees at more than 1,000 companies showed that 87% of employees are interested in an employer-sponsored wellness program, and 67% would be likely to use its services. In addition, 74% of respondents agreed that health and lifestyle have a significant impact on productivity at work.

When asked about their health goals, 42% of workers said they are highly motivated to eat right, and 23% said they are highly motivated to exercise. Specifically, many employees reported feeling tired at work and longing for physical activity during the day to boost their energy levels. Only a small minority of respondents reported getting enough exercise, and lack of energy was cited as the number one hindrance to productivity.

A full three-quarters of the employees surveyed said they had made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight. When those employees were asked what forms of assistance would be most helpful in reaching their weight loss goals, 41% said a personal trainer or a nutritionist, 21% said a wellness program at work, 11% said a diet program they paid for themselves, and 5% said books or videos on diet and exercise.