Citation

Shephard RJ. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 2000; 25(5): 465-475.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Worksite wellness programmes have shifted from simple fitness classes to a modular structure that can enhance many aspects of health. Waning physical abilities and an increased susceptibility to both acute and chronic disease make such initiatives of particular value in enhancing the health of elderly workers. Older people are attracted to such programmes if they are perceived as safe and adapted to their needs. Such individuals often have a strong motivation to enhance their health and fitness. Committed exercisers can substantially augment aerobic power, muscle strength, and flexibility. Given participation in ancillary modules, there is also potential to correct a number of important cardiac risk factors, including obesity, a high serum cholesterol, hypertension, and cigarette smoking. In consequence, the appraised age of male participants may be increased by as much as two years.Relevance to industryWorker health and fitness plainly have an important influence on productivity and absenteeism rates. Worksite facilities provide a readily accessible method of health and fitness programmes to the employee. They have many advantages over community-wide health programmes, and if well-designed can substantially augment worker fitness.