MIL/BBC, Jan 24, 2008. Author: Caroline Parkinson
January 24, 2008 - Most people need an incentive to lose weight or visit the gym.
It can be the target of a special occasion, or the promise of a new outfit. Employers are not usually involved - but under government plans, they might be.
The anti-obesity strategy launched on Wednesday sets out a series of measures to reverse the rising trend in obesity in England.
One idea is to involve employers in promoting healthy living, whether through "Well@Work" weight-loss competitions for staff, or with incentives like leisure vouchers.
Such measures would be aimed not only at improving individuals' health but also benefitting companies - who would have a more motivated and healthier workforce who took less time off.
The idea comes from the US, where many companies have introduced healthy living schemes, with some even offering financial incentives.
