Wellness Programs in Trouble When They Should be Booming

Overall, fitness, nutrition and healthy living continue to trend upward in popularity. Americans gain better awareness each day of just how unfit we are as a country. The good news is that on a macro level we are on the right track. In spite of these positive trends, there are pockets of society where the focus on fitness is dwindling.

Across the country thousands of wellness programs were cut during the recession and they don't appear to be gaining ground yet. When budgets are tight and the numbers look daunting wellness program are one of the first things to go. It doesn't mean that corporations are evil, or are ignoring the importance of a healthy lifestyle. They don't see how they can justify a wellness program while the company considers who they might layoff. This reaction by many American companies are understandable, but ultimately the wrong direction.

We Need Corporate Wellness Programs Now More Than Ever

Numerous sources such as EHS Today have reported that wellness programs actually boost productivity and profits. In addition to these pure economic justifications for corporate wellness programs, employees need them now more than ever. A recent USA today article sights the fact that many Americans are finding it more difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the current economic climate. I know this is true for me as well. Staying healthy is often more expensive and time consuming than giving in and pulling into Wendy's or Burger King. That's why American employees need that extra incentive from their company more than ever.

America's corporations need to get creative and find ways to keep these programs in place. When implemented correctly, these programs are good for the bottom line, and equally important for employees.