It’s a great time of year for all fans in Michigan. Beautiful fall weekends lie ahead and your favorite team – whether pro, college or high school – is starting their 2013 season!

Sarah Szul
Health Solutions Manager

As you know, there’s more to being a true fan than tailgating parties and waving foam “#1” fingers. While attending games, you may have to climb stadium stairs, stand up and down numerous times to cheer on big plays, and suffer weather elements of cold temperatures, wind and rain. Not to mention the speed and endurance you’ll need to run to and from concession stands so you don’t miss any of the action.

OK, it’s really not all that demanding. Why not join other fans at work in committing to a fitness training regimen – your own workplace version of football training. Here are some ideas for conditioning drills and other strategies to keep your employees in shape year-round.

Organize a group of employees and take daily walks. You can do this before work, during lunch breaks or at the end of the day. Even a short walk is good for your heart, strengthens your bones and joints, and can help clear your mind. And here’s another potential benefit: a recent study shows that 15 minutes of walking after a meal may decrease your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Stand up, stretch and move around. Fans need flexibility too. Besides, staying still for hours is horrible for your health. Encourage your employees to do some stretches every couple of hours.

Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. It’s all about the “8s” – encourage your employees to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids every day and to try to get 8 hours of sleep every night. For a good night’s sleep, exercise regularly, go to bed early and keep your bedroom completely dark and on the cool side.

Eat healthy foods in moderate portions. Educate employees on the proper portion sizes meals, snacks and beverages.

Remember - practice makes perfect. If your employees stick to this healthy training plan, they’ll feel better and be better prepared for life’s challenges, on and off the job.