Peter Gottsacker
President
Wixon Inc.
St. Francis
www.wixon.com
What does your daily or weekly fitness regimen consist of?
Work out with trainer 2 a week, Spinning/swimming or cardio work out 2 a week
What fitness clubs do you belong to, if any?
Bem Fitness, Vic Tanny
Other than the obvious health benefits, how has being fit improved your life?
Improves me mentally, I feel better about myself. My social network is usually around physical activity.
How does personal fitness affect your work life?
I believe you need to walk the walk for your employees. It helps in motivating them to get and stay fit.
Do you have a corporate health or wellness initiative?
Yes
What health/wellness organizations do you contract with, if any?
Several
How does fitness or wellness affect your overall organization?
Since we have implemented a health and wellness initiative, our health care costs remained the same as last year, i.e., no increase. But more important are the stories from our people that they have reduced their cholesterol or lost 5 pounds or went to the doctor for the first time.We ran a biggest loser contest and the results were amazing. Just went smoke -free.
What advice do you have for other executives interested in starting either a personal fitness plan or corporate wellness initiative?
Need to be involved. Take an active role in the process, and lead by example and join the club. Help employees get on board by making it easy, use an outside organization to administer. Talk to your insurance company they have many free programs, speakers and advice to help assist.