Working out in the workplace

11:46am Wednesday 16th May 2007

STAFF at a Wootton Bassett company are being given the chance to work out in their workplace.

Trio Childcare Connections, which offers childcare advice, support and training, decided to take a proactive approach to improving its employees' health.

Julia Hinns from Trio was aware of the problem of encouraging people to go the gym after a long day at work.

So she teamed up with personal trainer Richie Jeffers from Nine Elms to provide a health and fitness programme for her staff.

Julia said: "I thought what about bringing the exercise class to the office prior to everyone leaving and giving them time to exercise prior to going home.

"Now this initiative has been piloted twice a week for my employees in the office each week, for a month to keep them healthy, alert and awake.

"Richie brings along his fitness equipment and provides a fun, time-saving workout before we go home.

"The enthusiasm has been outstanding and staff who haven't exercised for many, many years are now trying this.

"The pilot has now led to continued commitment from Trio to provide this opportunity for our staff.

"Richie's rebounding system seems to rejuvenate us when we are tired, improving our physical and mental wellbeing, reducing office stress leaving us in a healthier position to return home."

Trio also invited along Laura Campbell from Hands of Thyme in West Swindon to run a pilates class in the lunch hour.

"This encouraged even more people than could be accommodated in one session and we are hoping to timetable this in too.

"This will not only help our staff with lifestyle change opportunities but also to make use of an often empty training room at the end of a working day at 4.30pm.

"The Fitness Pilates technique involves strengthening the muscles around the centre of your body - the muscles that are responsible for your posture.

"I believe this fun, exercise initiative could be duplicated across many companies in the area and wanted to share our success with others."

For more information contact Julia at 01793 849621.