Employee Health Practices and Interests in a Health and Fitness Center Worksite

Abstract

This study involved a a mailed questionnaire to survey all employees (677) at one industrial setting. The conceptual framework utilized in the study is the Health Promotion Model (Pender, 1987), a model that provides a basis for explaining individual health actions. The purpose of this study was to identify what employee health behaviors are related to decisions to participate in health promotion programs offered at the worksite. In spite ot the limited response (n=136, 20%), the resulting data can be extremely useful in planning a Health and Fitness Center at the research setting. The instrument consisted of four sections: 1) the Health-Promoting Lifestyte Profile (HPLP), 2) employee opinions concerning fitness center equipment, 3) employee health activities, and 4) demographics. Data were analyzed utilizing descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results of this study revealed that employees' reported participation in a regular exercise regimen were significantly and positively related to various health promotion behaviors; perceived health status; current level of interest in health and fitness; marital status; and significantly and negatively related to the influence ot other persons. These findings are limited to the study setting but do provide some consistencies with relevant literature.