Corporate HR Administrators often ask us about the Return on Investment (ROI) on walking programs. Here are a few great links that we send them. Calculating ROI can be challenging, since you’re measuring program participation and costs, absenteeism, improved productivity, fewer insurance claims, stress reduction and a variety of other factors, including many non-quantitative benefits to a walking program (less gas consumed!). We are happy to work with you to determine the ROI on your program over time.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has some great data:
Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
http://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/library/toolkit/pdfs/six_step_guide.pdf
“worksite health programs focused on lifestyle behavior change have
been shown to yield a $3 to $6 return on investment (ROI) for each
dollar invested.”
CDC’s Leanworks ROI page:
http://www.cdc.gov/leanworks/why/roi.html
“It is estimated that employers spend $13 billion annually on the total cost of obesity. Approximately 9.1% of all health care costs in the United States are related to obesity and overweight.
Workplace obesity prevention and control programs can be an effective way for employers to reduce obesity. They can produce a direct financial return on investment (ROI) by lowering health care costs, lowering absenteeism, and increasing employee productivity.”
They also have an obesity cost calculator which is an excellent tool for determining how much obesity might be costing your company.
WalkBC is a fantastic website put together by Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon and the BC Recreation & Parks Association.
Business Case for Workplace Walking Programs
http://walkbc.ca/business-case-workplace-walking-programs
“Return on investment – Canada Life in Toronto showed a return of
$6.85 for every $1 invested in its Workplace Wellness program; while
the Canadian government realized $1.95-$3.75 per employee per $1
spent.”
Benefits of Physical Activity in the Workplace