Broadband Fitness Innovations Boost Health & Productivity

With summer approaching and beach vacations on the horizon, many Americans are renewing their commitment to fitness. No matter what the inspiration that may be driving increased workouts, the benefits to health and productivity are significant, and broadband is playing a part in fueling fitness momentum. From interactive gaming to connected fitness monitors to online diet and exercise communities, our latest Broadband Now video highlights some exciting examples of broadband fitness innovations.

With more than $1 billion in sales for Nintendo and over 1.4 million copies sold, Wii Fit has become a sensation by making fitness entertaining. Featuring a virtual personal trainer, online tracking tools and over 40 games, Wii delivers impressive variety in the comfort of your living room. For those who prefer the great outdoors, there are a range of mobile devices with fitness applications to choose from. Smart phones can double as heart rate monitors and fitness trackers, Health Cubby 1.0 connects users in real-time with a health support network, and the Apex BodyBugg links users to an online weight management system.

But beyond looking good in a swimsuit, what benefits does increased exercise hold for businesses and their bottom lines? A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol confirms that people who exercise on work days are more productive, happier and suffer less stress than on non-gym days. In fact, 72 percent reported improvements in time management on exercise days, and 74 percent said they managed their workload better.

Offices are recognizing the value of fitness not only in terms of productivity, but also for reducing health risks too. That explains why MetLife's study on benefits trends noted an increase in the number of employers who are providing employees with wellness programs, citing an increase from 49 percent in 2006 to 57 percent in 2008 for companies with 500 or more employees. The fact is employees who improve their fitness have lower health care costs, fewer medical claims, reduced absenteeism, and are more productive team members--which is a win-win for employee health and businesses' bottom lines.

Thanks to broadband, Americans now have a new generation of choices to stay healthy and fuel their productivity in the work place. For more on broadband-powered fitness innovations, tune into our latest Broadband Now video.