Barriers to Engagement in a Workplace Weight Management Program: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Workplace health promotion
• Behavioral science
• Public health

Background:

• Employee engagement in workplace wellness programs is crucial for effectiveness.
• Understanding participant experiences is key to optimizing program design.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate factors influencing engagement in a workplace weight management program.
• Identify specific barriers and facilitators to engagement and weight loss.
• Provide recommendations for enhancing workplace wellness initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing 8 focus groups with employees from a large academic institution.
• Participants were selected from those enrolled in the Steps to Health study's weight management component.
• Data analysis employed a directed content analysis approach on transcribed focus group discussions.

Main Results:

• Employees encountered numerous barriers to program engagement, both internal and external to the workplace.
• Coaches positively influenced participant engagement, with suggestions for more frequent and varied contact.
• Participants desired on-site group exercise classes and customized educational materials.

Conclusions:

• Workplace weight management programs should offer schedule flexibility and convenient exercise facilities.
• Institutional changes promoting healthy eating and activity during work hours are recommended.
• Employers should actively measure engagement and gather feedback for program optimization.