Thirty Days To A Slimmer You

More of us are spending most of our lives on the job. So, what better way to drop pounds than through workplace weight-loss programs?

A recent study from the University of Cincinnati and reported on physorg.com, reports that workplace-related weight loss programs are "moderately effective."

The study looked at 11 other studies published since 1994. The studies were categorized as low-intensity, moderate intensity and high intensity. The findings showed that programs that involved face-to-face contact more than monthly were most effective.

Participants in high-intensity weight loss programs lost between 2.2 to nearly 14 lbs.

"Most employed adults in the U.S. spend nearly half of their waking hours at their place of employment," University of Cincinnati's Dr. Michael Benedict said. "Worksite-based programs have great potential to positively impact our current obesity epidemic."

Benedict noted that the studies did not examine how well participants kept the weight off after the programs were done. It is also not known how much money employers could save in terms of insurance cost and worker productivity by implementing weight loss programs on the job.

Workplace weight-loss programs can be effective in any type of work environment, from office settings in which people sit at desks for long periods to fire departments which rely on personnel in top physical condition.

There are many ways to create workplace weight-loss programs. Commercial programs such as Weight Watchers often run workplace meetings. Of course, a workplace weight-loss program can be as simple as a pair of coworkers wagering to see who can lose the most weight in a fixed period of time. This can quickly evolve into a "Biggest Loser"-style, company-wide effort. A prize could be awarded to the person who loses the most weight.

Another option is for coworkers to start a diet lunch club. Each person is responsible for bringing a healthy lunch for other members, with the job rotating each week.

Other workplace weight-loss programs need not be so formal. An employee softball or running squad can provide benefits too. No one need step on the scale. All they really need to do is go out, have fun and try their best. The pounds will follow.

Workplace weight-loss programs help to keep participants accountable because they must face their coworkers and fellow participants every day. They also foster a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.

Employers need to be cautious. Employees should never feel harassed about their weight or about what they eat each day. Weight loss programs should always be voluntary and never a condition for employment.

In addition, the stakes in workplace weight loss programs should never be such that employees feel they must resort to drastic measures, such as overdosing on diet pills, starvation diets or extreme exercise. These measures could harm their health and their productivity.

Most of us spend long hours of the workplace and our coworkers are like a second family. Why not use that time to your advantage and try a workplace weight-loss program? You and your coworkers can cheer each other on and help your employer's bottom line.

Fat Loss Made Easy -- The Banana Diet is More Than a Craze

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