25 May, 2008

Starting at 4:15 a.m., Jack Mason works out for two hours a day before he goes to work. Once he gets to the Provo-based Nature's Sunshine Products, the software engineer logs it online. He tries to eat more fruits and vegetables, and steers clear of ice cream, because his work is watching his diet, too.

The program is voluntary, as are the supplement manufacturer's subsidized Weight Watchers meetings, discounts on off-site gym memberships, free blood screens and "lifestyle coaches" that provide employees encouragement to meet their health goals.

But most of the 550 workers participate because it pays off for them and their company: Nature's health insurance costs are rising less than 2 percent a year - instead of the double-digit jumps other employers have seen - saving the company an estimated $5.5 million since 2003.

And employees like Mason - who credits his work-inspired exercise and diet for helping him weather a bad biking accident - earn up to four hours of paid time off every six months and get free health insurance. Those who don't participate in the health screens and goal-setting must pay 15 percent of the premium.

Source : http://www.sltrib.com