January 5, 2016

Wellness Warriors program helps employees achieve resolutions

Did you make a New Year's resolution for 2016? Studies tell us that more than 40 percent of us do every year, with losing weight

Did you make a New Year's resolution for 2016? Studies tell us that more than 40 percent of us do every year, with losing weight and getting fit topping the list. Despite the good intentions, University of Scranton research indicates only 8 percent of people achieve their goals.

However, benefit-eligible Wayne State employees have a secret weapon to help them achieve their goals and enhance every aspect of their health.

The Wellness Warriors program provides employees with a fitness assessment, nutrition and personal training, the opportunity to work with a wellness coach throughout the year, and discounted membership to the Mort Harris Recreation and Fitness Center. These services are not only free, but employees can earn incentives up to $250 in financial incentives by taking advantage of them and showing improvement in their health scores.

"Wellness Warriors allows employees to not only grow professionally while they're at work, but also grow in their health and wellness," said Lea Madjoff, human resources wellness coordinator and department administrator, who runs the program. "People are happier when they're healthier, so we try to provide the tools and resources needed for people to take better care of themselves."

Wellness Warriors can also sign up for special programs, such as Lose Weight with Tina, which costs $25 and begins on Tuesday, Jan. 19 - just in time to help with weight loss resolutions.

Lose Weight with Tina is a smart and well-balanced program that supports My Plate and Dietary Guidelines to help people make better food choices. This is a group class lead by an instructor, where discussions and demonstrations of everyday practical approaches to planning meals and eating are presented.

Tina Thomas will meet with participants every Tuesday for 12 weeks starting on January 19, 2016 from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the Academic and Administration Building, Room 3700.

Sign up for Lose Weight with Tina on Academica in Training, Seminars, Workshops in the Other Resources tab under Employee Resources. Enrollment is limited to the first 40 people. If the session is full, please email wellness@wayne.edu. Based on demand, an additional session may be added.

For Wellness Warriors who have been working toward their goals throughout 2015, the deadline to redeem 2015 Wellness Bucks for prizes is Feb. 12. For more information, visit wellness.wayne.edu/bucks.php.