Jean Marie Abraham1, Daniel J Crespin, Alexander J Rothman. 1. Division of Health Policy and Management (Dr Abraham and Mr Crespin) and Department of Psychology (Dr Rothman), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the initiation and maintenance of participation in an employer-based wellness program that provides financial incentives for fitness center utilization. METHODS: Using multivariate analysis, we investigated how employees' demographics, health status, exercise-related factors, and lifestyle change preferences affect program participation. RESULTS: Forty-two percent of eligible employees participated in the program, and 24% earned a $20 incentive at least once by utilizing a gym eight times or more in a month. On average, participants utilized fitness centers 7.0 months each year and earned credit 4.5 months. Participants' utilization diminished after their first year in the program. CONCLUSIONS: Factors associated with initiation and maintenance of fitness center utilization were similar. Declining utilization over time raises concern about the long-run effectiveness of fitness-focused wellness programs. Employers may want to consider additional levers to positively reinforce participation.
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the initiation and maintenance of participation in an employer-based wellness program that provides financial incentives for fitness center utilization. METHODS: Using multivariate analysis, we investigated how employees' demographics, health status, exercise-related factors, and lifestyle change preferences affect program participation. RESULTS: Forty-two percent of eligible employees participated in the program, and 24% earned a $20 incentive at least once by utilizing a gym eight times or more in a month. On average, participants utilized fitness centers 7.0 months each year and earned credit 4.5 months. Participants' utilization diminished after their first year in the program. CONCLUSIONS: Factors associated with initiation and maintenance of fitness center utilization were similar. Declining utilization over time raises concern about the long-run effectiveness of fitness-focused wellness programs. Employers may want to consider additional levers to positively reinforce participation.
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