TREVOSE, Penn.–Forty-five employees have lost a total of 210 pounds over the summer as part of a health initiative at TruMark Financial Credit Union here.
The effort was launched in the Spring when the 45 employees signed up for the TruLoser Weight Loss Challenge. According to the Pennsylvania CU Association, Each participant paid a $5 fee, which the credit union would refund if they lost a minimum of five pounds by the end of the challenge. Employees, equipped with their Fitbits, began climbing the 43 steps to the third floor rather than taking the elevator. Flyers posted on the elevators encouraged employees to take the stairs to burn more calories.
At the end of the challenge, employees lost a total of 210 pounds and the credit union refunded 17 employees their initial $5 fee. The two employees who lost the highest percent of their original body weight received cash prizes, the PCUA reported.
The weight loss challenge was inspired in part by increased space at TruMark’s new headquarters, which has allowed more employees to take advantage of the expanded in-house employee wellness activities. During lunch hours, many employees head to the exercise room to work out on treadmills, rowing machines, and elliptical equipment. Employees stretch their muscles, unwind, and tap into their inner-selves at monthly yoga classes, the PCUA said.
"The credit union’s wellness initiative provides an opportunity to stay connected with employees and foster healthier lifestyles," JoAnn McCausland, SVP of human resources told the PCUA. "Healthier employees lead to happier, more productive employees."