Health Promotion Program Ideas – Volume Two.
Walking Club
Walking clubs or “trekking” can either be done in real time (by scheduling walking groups), or clubs may be set it up so people do their walking on their own and keep a shared log at work.
After a certain number of miles or steps are logged, staff are eligible for membership into the walking “club” and receive something like a prize (a walking pin, similar to the ones that volkswalkers get, or a certificate of membership).
Ways to continue interest in walking groups include -
o Periodic announcements about community walking events. Keep abreast of events in the community, Parks and Recreation health promotion programs, available tracks, inside walking choices, volkswalking events, etc.
o Periodic information specific to walkers; like what to look for when purchasing a pair of walking shoes.
o Consider a workplace team to take part in a local fundraiser walk, like the March of Dimes walk.
o A walking club may be the type of “club” that never really meets, or it may be the type that does provide the option for those who are interested in group walks and events.
Health Awareness Video Programming
A lot of good health related videos and DVDs are available through loan programs either at no or low costs. Select video programming based on worker interests and needs.
o Schedule periodic health video viewings at lunch brown bag sessions.
o The videos could be related to health or other related wellness topics like financial planning, caring for aging parents, or even humor as a “break” from the work routine.
o Make certain to preview videos before showing them to insure they’re appropriate, not too long, etc.
o Have a Health Promotion Committee Host moderate the viewing, greet individuals , and lead a brief discussion after the video. Create one or two questions for discussion after previewing the video and use these to lead the discussion. Many health videos come with group discussion questions.
o Attempt to supply a pertinent educational handout for participants to take with them for more information on the topic.
o If possible, provide popcorn or fruit as a snack.
o Make available a prize drawing (or points when you’re doing that type of incentive wellness program) for those attending the video program and discussion.
Health Promotion Mentors
Every workplace generally has at least a couple of employees who’ve successfully made changes in their health. Usually, other employees will relate to one of their colleagues. Coworker support can go a long ways in encouraging healthful changes.
o Seek volunteers from the work force who have experienced a disease resulting from an unhealthy behavior, or survived or recovered from a disease that just happens like breast cancer, and who have successfully made positive changes.
o Connect these success story workforce with workforce struggling with similar health issues.
o Both staff participating in the mentoring process are doing so on a voluntary basis. Respect the privacy of this very special relationship.
o A Wellness Committee individuals could be involved from a peripheral standpoint, and be available to share other resources that could be valuable to both staff members.