On April 30, 30 of our employees participated in National Walk Day for the third consecutive year. Promoted through Blue Cross Blue Shield, this health initiative encouraged businesses nationwide to wear comfortable shoes to work and take a walk at lunch.
Cheri Phillips, human resource director, believed this year’s walk was a big success.
“We had 30 employees walk on the bike path close to our facility,” said Phillips, “but since then, we also had several who indicated that they would continue to walk daily to get some fresh air and exercise.”
National Walk Day was created to improve personal health and decrease the cost of healthcare for employers as well as employees. On this day, employees are encouraged to wear sneakers to work and take at least 30 minutes out of their day to get up and walk. This project not only raises awareness of the importance of physical activity, but it also gives coworkers a friendly push towards a healthier life.
After spending close to 10 hours a day in a plant environment, company administrators agreed that employees could really use some time outside to spend walking and enjoying time with coworkers.
“When it comes to health, it’s important to engage employees,” said Phillips. “We believe that companies should always support healthy options and initiatives for their employees, so this was a great opportunity that will continue to take place here.”
Apple Rubber is also currently participating in the Lose to Win Challenge, and will be joining the Route 66 Health and Wellness Challenge come the end of summer.