Laurie O’Loughlin
Vice President, Human Resources
InPro Corp.
Muskego
www.inprocorp.com
What does your daily or weekly fitness regimen consist of?
- Running – 5x/week – 45 min+ daily
- Strength Training – 2x/week with a Personal Trainer
- Pilates – 1x/week
- Ballroom Dance – 1x/week
- Stretching – 5x/week
What fitness clubs do you belong to, if any?
I do not belong to a fitness club, however, I have taken pilates and yoga classes at Be Fitness in Delafield. We have a fitness center at work which includes weights and cardio machines. In addition, I have a treadmill, stationary bike and weights in my home.
Other than the obvious health benefits, how has being fit improved your life?
There are no activities or events that I am unable to participate in because of physical limitations. I can finish a 5k or 8k run and have pride in doing so. I can enjoy a full day of summer activities and not feel exhausted afterwards. I am 43 years old and I can still still do gymnastics with my young nieces. I can try new things and not feel like I am too old to do something.
How does personal fitness affect your work life?
As the Wellness Coordinator for my organization, I feel that I am a role model for the other employees. When we develop wellness plans for the employees, I don’t feel like I am expecting others to do something that I can’t do myself. I take a very proactive approach to my own health and fitness goals which shows the employees that there is senior level support for InPro’s corporate initiatives. In addition, as VP of Human Resources, I deal with very sensitive issues with employees. I believe fitness helps to reduce my level of stress.
Do you have a corporate health or wellness initiative?
Yes
What health/wellness organizations do you contract with, if any?
Sensia, Concentra, Aurora
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization?
Our wellness campaign, Healthy Rewards, affects our overall organization through increased productivity, reduced workers compensation injuries (costs), reduced absenteeism, increased morale and decreased health insurance claims. The savings can be used to provide additional benefits and programs of value to our employees. Our campaign for 2008 includes the ability to earn points for various activities including fitness, preventative health check-ups, nutrition, and volunteerism. Most people enjoy a challenge and like working towards a goal. Getting rewarded for the results, makes the program even more exciting. More importantly, the employees can have fun while improving their health and fitness.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative?
There are so many diseases and deaths that are related to poor lifestyle choices You owe it to yourself to try to manage your own health and fitness and you owe to your employees to provide a healthy working environment. There are measurable savings to the organization and your employees will appreciate your interest in their personal well-being. It is never too late to start and it feels great!
