Every Friday we pass on a few articles, pictures, videos, infographics, etc. we enjoyed throughout the week in a “Best of the Week” post. Have a great weekend!

“As health care costs rise, more companies invest in fitness programs”
From: NJ.com

In 2010, almost 75% of companies that provide health benefits also offered some type of wellness program, up from 57% in 2009. Programs included fitness centers, weight loss programs, smoking cessation, health coaching and other online resources.

With average annual healthcare premiums per family at $13,770, companies are starting to realize in the long run, wellness initiatives pay. The article states, “For every dollar a business spends on wellness programs, it saves $3.27 in medical costs and $2.73 in abseentism costs, according to a recent study by three Harvard University researchers.”

“Ten Tips for Improving Posture and Ergonomics”
From: SpineHealth, Kelly Andrews, DC

1. Know the warning signs of back pain caused by poor ergonomics and posture

2. Get up and move.

3. Keep the body in alignment while sitting in an office chair and while standing.

4. Use posture-friendly props and ergonomic office chairs when sitting.

5. Increase awareness of posture and ergonomics in everydaysettings

6. Use exercise to help prevent injury and promote good posture.

7. Wear supportive footwear when standing.

8. Remember good posture and ergonomics when in motion.

9. Create ergonomic physical environments and workspaces, such as for sitting in an office chair at a computer.

10. Avoid overprotecting posture.

From the Ergonomics Plus blog: Musculoskeletal Disorders And How To Prevent Them [Infographic]

Photo credit: TheSokkeSnok