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What factors influence participation in an exercise-focused, employer-based wellness program?
Jean M Abraham1, Roger Feldman, John A Nyman
1Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. abrah042@umn
Employee participation in a wellness program depends on prior exercise habits, perceived costs, and attitudes toward exercise. Older, male employees who exercised previously are more likely to continue regular exercise.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Health and wellness program evaluation
- Exercise science
Background:
- Universities are increasingly implementing wellness programs to promote employee health.
- Understanding participation drivers is crucial for program success and return on investment.
- Incentive-based programs require analysis of behavioral economics principles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key factors influencing employee participation and regular exercise within an incentive-based wellness program.
- To analyze the relationship between pre-program behaviors, attitudes, and program engagement.
- To determine demographic predictors of sustained exercise adherence.
Main Methods:
- Regression analysis was used to model participation probability.
- Survey data collected employee exercise history, attitudes, and perceived costs.
- Analysis focused on factors influencing sign-up and regular exercise adherence.
Main Results:
- Prior exercise behavior, time cost, exercise enjoyment, and perceived benefits/barriers significantly influenced program sign-up.
- Older age, male gender, and prior regular fitness center use predicted higher likelihood of continued exercise.
- Program incentives may be more effective for individuals with pre-existing exercise habits and positive attitudes.
Conclusions:
- Employee wellness program participation is multifactorial, influenced by individual history and perceptions.
- Targeted interventions may enhance engagement for specific employee demographics.
- Future research should explore long-term program impact and cost-effectiveness.
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