Eric Isbister, CEO
General MetalWorks Corp.
Mequon, Wi
www.genmet.com
What does your daily or weekly fitness regime consist of?
"In the mild weather I ride a bicycle to and from work (approximately 150 -200 miles per week)and run. During the winter I run, row or cross country ski and I coach the Cedarburg Youth Wrestling Club."
Other than the obvious health benefits, how has being fit improved your life?
"If you prioritize health you can "do more". When you "do more" you can "do more" and you experience a spiraling of increased activity and productivity that feeds on itself, regenerates and amplifies life. The largest benefit of exercising with a group of people (running with the Badgerland Striders for example) is that you meet more people. Interaction with more people enhances your life. Life is a pursuit of better stories and you get more stories exercising than other more sedentary things. Leading by example is a powerful tool. You have something to brag about if your participation yields other’s interest and helps them maintain a healthy lifestyle. I have competed in the Boston Marathon 8 times and this year two of my daughters are “toeing the line in Hopkinton”."
How does personal fitness affect your work life?
"Personal fitness raises the threshold at which you live and work. If you are used to running 5 miles a day you are not only less apt to succumb to a cold but the effect a cold has on you is minimized. A runner with a "runny nose" would still go for a daily run. If you would go for a run you’d better get to work. After a mile every feeling changes and gets brought in line."
Do you have a corporate health or wellness initiative?
"No."
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization?
"Fitness and wellness effect our organization extremely. Healthier employees are less susceptible to sick time and they generally work with a higher intensity than their not-so-healthy co-workers."
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative?
"A personal fitness plan is mandatory. Often I solve many problems while exercising. My employees are probably tired of me starting a suggestion with “While I was running last night I thought of…” I could use some guidance starting a corporate wellness plan. We have a concern that many of our employees could improve their health (we have had a wellness coach present) but have not been able to get any traction on this initiative."
