Rethinking workplace exercise

The burgeoning workplace wellness market is globally worth $40.7 billion. Traditionally, OH&S has viewed workplace exercise programs as initiatives that prevent and treat worksite injuries. Alternatively, the human resource management persective argues these programs attract, motivate, and retain talent. Regardless of the perspective, such programs typically adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, with free or subsidised gym memberships accompanied by traditional aerobic and resistance exercise. Although workplace exercise programs are endorsed internationally, recognising the potential financial benefits to companies and biopsychosocial benefits for employees, limitations exist. First, ROI benefits disappear when economic evaluations isolate RCT's. Second, employee engagement of approximately 30%, with 10% of employees reporting health benefits, minimises program impact. Forward-thinking and careful planning are therefore required. For example, millenials' needs suggest contemporary programs should be developed, implemented, and evaluated within a social-ecological framework, inclusive of a broader biopyschosocial approach to wellbeing. This potentially shifts workpalce exercise programs into holistic initiatives that address OH&S and human resource management objectives.