Angi Krueger
Vice president of marketing and business development, Core Creative
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I do kickboxing two times per week, and typically play competitive tennis or cardio tennis once per week in the summer. Recently I began “Insanity” and have added that to my daily workout routine to get into better shape. I walk, bike, and run outside when the weather cooperates, and I also spend time coaching my son’s basketball team.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? It is a huge stress-reliever and without it affects my attitude and my mood. Fitness gives me the energy and confidence to “bring it” and allows me the ability to take on the new challenges each day brings.
Patti Schauer
Vice president of finance and HR, Core Creative, Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I usually do spin for about 60-70 minutes five days a week.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? I usually do it in the morning, and it allows me to think about the day. Since it is uninterrupted time, I often come up with solutions to various issues.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? I find I have more stamina, and I sleep better.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? It has really become an important aspect of our culture in that it has encouraged employees to interact through lunch and learn classes, team challenges, sharing of recipes, and cheering on others as they improve their lifestyles.
Mary Starr
Executive vice president, The Starr Group
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I work out five to seven days per week consisting of running, biking, swimming, weight training and bikram yoga. I compete in one to three triathlons or runs per year and this year I completed my first Tough Mudder.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? My personal fitness routine allows me to be more vibrant, passionate and present in my daily work life. I schedule my workouts just like any other important meetings I have each week.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? The Starr Group is committed to promoting an environment that encourages and supports proper nutrition, regular exercise and on-going lifestyle management in order to achieve an overall increase in energy, a reduction in stress, a more positive outlook on life and an increase in total body wellness. I am excited to say that we have achieved an overall culture of wellness at The Starr Group with 100 percent participation in our wellness program.
Cameron Yazdani
Associate director, Schenck S.C.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Weights, running, volleyball, and tennis
How does personal fitness affect your work life? Body carries the mind – a strong connection is paramount.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Partner with others and set a goal for gradual improvement.
Tom Bruseth
President, Warehouse Equipment Co Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? In the summer months I bike twice a week, play League Softball twice a week, and do a short 15 minute work out every morning, and run when I have the time. Most weekends this time of year are spent hiking, backpacking or some sort of water activity.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? I never get tired during the day, I find it easier to deal with issues when I’m in shape.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? A healthy employee will have less time off, and perform better at a consistent level.
John Foley
Regional vice president, provider engagement and contracting, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I focus on cardio on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and I work on core and weights on Tuesday and Thursday with a rest day on Sunday.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? I find that I am more effective when I have worked out in the morning. I am happier and approach situations with a positive perspective.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Start with the vending machines; clean house, and designate a company ambassador to incorporate health in everything that you do.
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Sue Miller
Vice president, sales and marketing, Commerce State Bank
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? My training consists of cycling three days a week, running six days a week, and strength/core exercises twice a week. I have a running background and I train with a club- it really helps having a common goal and interest.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? I believe when you have an exercise plan it holds you and the employees accountable and gives you a goal and a purpose. It’s incredible to see people break their fears and accomplish goals they never thought imaginable. A fitness plan can change a person’s lifestyle, give them a better attitude, support, build teams, and so much more.
Maureen Arndt
Director of operations, The Starr Group
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I am currently running five days a week with long runs on weekends. I also like to fit in some core and strength training with my favorite Jillian Michaels or Bob Harper DVDs.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? It allows me to destress, refocus and strategize, which in-turn allows me to be the best I can be for our employees. It also allows me to lead by example and encourage and support others working on their wellnes initiatives.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Start a corporate wellness program today. It is a step in the right direction, show your employees you care about their health and well being. With an organized wellness program, you will likely have a more energized group which leads to greater production.
Kim Dandrea
Director-personal lines insurance, David Insurance Agency
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I am a triathlete and my weekly fitness regime consists of focusing on one-two of the disciplines during the week and over two hours on Saturday and Sunday; I also have strength training during different points in the season.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? I have not had to call in sick one day since I began here at the agency over five years ago; I have a very structured, disciplined and focused effort to my workouts as well as my work life, as I manage a team of 10-12 along with revenue and market management.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? Along with the health benefits, being fit has made me more productive, focused and efficient. It helps me to build relationships with others that are of the same mind set. It also helps me to build a network for business opportunities.
Ann Knabe, PhD
Colonel, IMA to chief of engagement and outreach, United States Air Force Headquarters
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? On average, 90 minutes a day which includes a three mile jog in the morning five days a week, bodypump lifting six days a week, spin two times a week and Bikram Yoga (hot yoga) two or three times a week.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Put it on your calendar as an appointment. I simply tell people I have a class I have to get to – in my case, it might be a hot yoga class or bodypump class. Make it a priority every day and force yourself to get up early if that is the only option.
Marikris O’Grady
Executive vice president, DUECO, Inc
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I usually try to work out five to six times a week. My philosophy is pretty simple: even a little bit of time spent working out is better than no time at all. I enjoy a variety of exercise routines: running, alternating cardio with weight lifting, tennis, biking outside, etc.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? Being fit has improved my life. It has allowed me to live life more fully. I can actually keep up with my teenagers (for the most part at least!). I am the mom who is right next to their side playing tennis, downhill skiing, golfing, etc. Being fit also allows me to spend time with my fiancé doing outside sports and more actively enjoying life.
Wendy Brucker
Administrative management, KHS USA, Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I currently workout a minimum of an hour a day, and I try to make good food and beverage choices every minute of every day. My regime is structured with a lot of variety and in small realistic time slots to fit into my busy schedule.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? KHS USA, Inc. has a real need to help our employees learn how to balance their work and personal life. A few years ago we tested the Wellness Waters with a walking campaign. The biggest take- away was the buzz that was felt during the campaign. You couldn’t help but notice that the entire company became engaged in one way or the other.
Liz Fredrichs
Executive vice president, Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Cardio or running three times a week; exercise with weights two to three times a week
How does personal fitness affect your work life? I find I’m more focused and less stressed when I’m working out. I can accomplish more in less time, while maintaining a positive outlook even in difficult situations.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? I found that getting back on a regime was easy when I made an appointment on my calendar for my workouts.
Chris Holmes
President and chief executive officer, Penfield Children’s Center
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Yoga, pilates and elliptical at least five times per week
How does personal fitness affect your work life? Keeps me mentally alert, and physically healthy enough for my high energy job.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? It sets a good example for my children.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? A lot. Healthy employees are needed to work with children.
Susan Sorrentino
Partner, Sorrentino Burkert Law Group LLC
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? My fitness regime includes: weight and strength training two days a week; running three days a week; stretching two to three days a week; and competing in 5k, 10k and half marathon races. I try to eat healthy while not depriving my self of the foods I love.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? My personal fitness makes me a better lawyer. My good health and condition keeps me alert and focused and enables me to take on the difficult challenges of my profession.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? The leaders of our firm value physical fitness and encourage members of our firm to participate in fitness activities. Healthy employees are happier, more productive employees. General health and wellness is contagious in our organization and provides a sense of camaraderie.
Theis Bacher
Vice president of sales, Chr. Hansen, Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Running five kilometers two to three times per week.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? It gives me more energy in the work place so I simply get more done.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? I have more self confidence.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? Try to imagine an organization with lots of people full of energy, and with a positive mindset.
Corey Schneider
President, Goodyear Chiropractic Health Center
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I do 90 to 120 minutes of cardio, weight and fitness training daily.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? Fitness makes work life amazing. I live to exercise. It gives me a sense of calm and accomplishment at the same time.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Make the time and it will improve your quality of life. Start off with reasonable and attainable goals for the type and intensity of exercise and stay committed for at least three months to give it the time to develop into a love and not another chore.
Matt Shumlas
Director of account management, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I play hockey two nights a week, and am in the gym five days a week. I use the hockey as a motivator for my strength and cardio training.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? Honestly, I’ve always been “hard-wired” to be active and fit. I am able to tackle more difficult work situations with a positive approach, and am able to reduce the stress that is created by a situation.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? As a healthcare company we need to be leaders in health and wellness. We are much more credible when we are able to show we walk the walk, and then become a trusted resource for our clients and co-workers when it comes to overall health.
Kyle Smith
Owner, Heaven & Earth Acupuncture and Wellness LLC
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Three days running and three days weight training.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? I am more active with our children.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Just do it.
Steve Hipp
President, Athea Laboratories and Packaging
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I work out almost every weekday morning and at least once on the weekend and I enjoy the morning fitness classes. I either do spin, weight training, or yoga. On the weekend, a nice bike ride, run or long walk on a great summer day is always nice.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? Staying fit definitely reduces my stress throughout the day. If I can go take my work frustrations out at the gym everyone in the office is happier, most importantly myself. By staying fit, I feel more engaged with all my office and production teams and am able to improve the entire organization and make sure we are always headed in the right direction.
Jim Klauck
Vice president, Froedtert and The Medical College of Wisconsin
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Do active full aerobic exercise six to seven days per week for 40 to 45 minutes. Alternate days with swimming and elliptical machine. In the summer months I do open water swimming in local lakes and mix in light weight lifting, situps and pullups three times per week.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? With a busy life, you may think you don’t have time – but start slow and make it a priority and it can work. Consistency is vital, commit to three times per week and don’t allow yourself to miss or skip a workout. You will soon see and feel the benefits.
Nick Kroll
President and chief executive officer, Aries Industries, Inc
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Cycling, weight training, stretching, hiking, golfing, jumping rope, and core work. Six times per week.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? I have fewer injuries, and am more able to do the active things I enjoy. My energy levels are higher and I feel mentally sharp. Emotionally, it allows me to manage stress.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? We initiated a wellness program two years ago. I am seeing employees take ownership for their personal wellness. We have people quiting smoking, exercising, losing weight, and working to manage their health conditions. The organization is understanding that the better our health, the better our lifestyles, and the more health benefit options we will have in the future.
Todd Meissner
President, Color Ink, Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Yoga once per week, personal training sessions once per week and run approximately 20 to 40 miles per week depending upon race calendar.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? For me, being healthy brings about much more self-confidence, and an improved self image. I no longer feel the “mid-afternoon crash.” I can also participate in activities like golf, skiing, tennis, kayaking, Stand-Up-Paddleboarding, and biking without over- exerting myself.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? Start with small achievable goals. If the goal is too lofty, you leave the door open to disappointment, and failure.
Tim Dodge
Chief information officer, Hanson Dodge Creative
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? High intensity cardio and plyometric training one to two times per week. Mid-high intensity jogging four to five miles two times per week. Strength and weight training one to two times per week, and yoga once a week.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? It helps make me more motivated, energetic and mentally sharp. It’s a huge stress relief.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? I feel good. I primarily eat healthy, but have no guilt on the occasional binge eat.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative? It’s worth it. Retaining good employees is just one of the many benefits. Have a plan and stick with it.
Mike Kwiatkowski
Vice president, PNC Bank
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? Six days per week. Spin or other cardio two to three days per week. Weights or other resitance training three to four days per week.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how does being fit improved your life? My self confidence is high when I’m physically fit which generally makes me feel good. My teenage daughter has also become committed to exercise which gives me self-satisfation that I had a positive influence on her.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? Increased productivity, lower health care costs, and an improved morale.
Mike Neu
Senior vice president, Chr. Hansen, Inc.
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? I do some sort of physical activity six days a week. I cycle, run or do the elliptical four days a week and focus on strength training along with a little cardio the other two days.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? Without my fitness routine, I could not handle all of the pressures of life. Strength and persistence is a combination of physical and mental strength.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? Chr. Hansen has a passion for health and wellness and it is becoming part of our culture. We believe that to have a successful organization we have to be both physically and mentally strong. In addition, it gives everyone something else to talk about and share experiences.
Larry Schreiber
President, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
What does your daily/ weekly fitness regime consist of? An hour to an hour and a half of running.
How does personal fitness affect your work life? It gives me the energy I need to to do my best. But more importantly, it allows me to walk the talk of our company’s mission. By improving my health and wellness, I lead by example and emulate a strong wellness ethic with our clients and providers.
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization? A fit workforce lessens the cost of medical claims and drives the cost of health insurance down. A healthy workforce also works hard, has less days away due to illness, and is an example to our members in our communities.
