The majority of U.S. health care expenses can be attributed to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic diseases and health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease and asthma. Positive lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and a healthy diet, can often prevent these costly medical conditions before they arise.

Workers who exercise on a regular basis tend to have more energy and be more productive while at work. The average office worker’s efficiency decreases 50% for the final two hours of the day, while regular exercisers work at full efficiency all day, amounting to a 12.5% increase in productivity.

Active and healthy employees tend to have a more positive and energetic outlook that can keep morale high within an organization.

Many employees view health promotion programs as an added perk that makes them feel valued and appreciated by their employer. Employees who feel valued are less likely to seek employment elsewhere, decreasing turnover and the time, energy and money needed to recruit, hire and train new workers.

When an employee misses work due to illness, other employees must pick up the slack. Employees suffering from a chronic health condition are likely to miss more work than healthy employees. Helping workers make positive lifestyle changes can reduce absenteeism and the strain it places on company morale and resources.