JPN-Journal.com News/Laws for Foreigners Working in Japan.

Fit to Work

JPN-Journal.com Editors
June 30, 2007.

NEW YORK -- According to a recent survey by The Principal Financial Group, spending more on employee fitness programs may lower turnover and increase productivity for small businesses.

The Principal Financial Group surveyed 1,197 employees and 630 retirees of small and mid-sized businesses in 2006. Result show that more than half of employees said fitness programs offered by their employers encouraged harder work and better performance.

Physical fitness leads to mental fitness, which in turn leads to productivity and better performance.

Also according to the survey, 55% said they are more likely to stay with employers offering fitness programs.

U.S. employees have long been known to switch jobs frequently for higher salary and advanced positions, but today, many employers are making efforts to retain experienced and skilled employees. The widespread of fitness facilities is one of the many ways in which U.S. employers are trying to win employee loyalty.

Operating under limited resources, it would be too much to ask small and mid-sized businesses in Japan to build fitness facilities in their building. But it is not difficult to offer discounts to sport clubs near offices and allow employees to enjoy time off for a good work out.