Do work-site exercise and health programs work?

Studies of high-profile work-site wellness programs suggest a number of important advantages for sponsoring corporations. Participants report greater wellness and enhanced productivity. Objective data suggest that programs (1) chiefly attract employees with a favorable attitude toward both work and health, (2) reduce absenteeism and employee turnover, (3) produce a small increase in productivity, and (4) reduce healthcare costs. Meta-analysis provides limited evidence of program-related changes in physical activity, aerobic fitness, and cardiac risk factors. The cumulative benefit has been estimated at $500 to $700 per worker per year, enough to cover the cost of a modest wellness program. The big challenge is to sustain long-term participation.