The NEW Executive Wellness Program

I recently delivered a talk at an executive wellness day for an international accounting firm’s Cape Town regional office. Having done several previously, I arrived prepared to talk about coping with stress, and the link between poor nutrition and diseases such as Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke.

Imagine my surprise to be met by a panel of healthy, sporty executives. Each either had a tale of successful health reform, or was a dedicated endurance athlete. The conversation changed from disease prevention to sports performance and longevity.

Reflecting on this, I noted that many of my peers who have achieved early financial success are similarly inclined. Most have taken up exercise at levels which were until recently considered elite. Whereas golf was previously the businessman’s pastime, activities like triathlon, mountain biking and trail running seem to be the new vogue.

Was this an observation of a new trend, or just happenstance? After two decades in executive wellness, I set out to determine the extent of this phenomenon. “There is absolutely a trend towards fitness and wellness” said Paul Berman, a member of the YPO. “We actively encourage it among our members and have a doctor consulting to our members on methods of implementation.”

I asked triathlon guru Steve Atwell if he was noticing an increase in executives among his club members. “There is a massive move towards triathlon across the board,” he explains. “Previously triathlon was both elite and expensive, but nowadays, the availability of second hand equipment, and the introduction of beginners courses has made the sport far more accessible and popular. People who do triathlon need to be good organizers, which includes executives. But they do not make up a disproportionate membership.” Similarly, John O’Connor of JOC cycles has not noticed a change in trend. “I sell high end equipment, and so have always had a wealthy clientele”.

“There is no real change in executive health in the manufacturing sector” says Dr. Terry Berelowitz, a occupational health practitioner. “Executives still suffer from work stress and neglect their health with the consequent diseases. This is despite the ‘wellness point  systems’ introduced by some insurance companies”, he opines.  This view is shared by corporate wellness consultant William Dewaard. “South Africa is still ten years behind the States”, he feels. Many large companies are incorporating wellness facilities at a fundamental design phase when identifying their office buildings. There is a clearer understanding of the performance and productivity benefits among these companies.

In my own experience, there is a growing acceptance of the concept of corporate wellness among most companies. The term covers a wide spectrum of possible interventions, and ultimately each company requires a tailored program. Aside from disease prevention, correctly managed programs both contribute to team building and can encourage a culture of achievement, balance and excellence.

Please share your thoughts on changing trends in executive wellness as seen from your perspective…