For many employers, their most valuable players include those who keep the computers running smoothly. Emerging throughout UC, however, is a new cadre of MVPs – those who are keeping the workers physically and mentally fine-tuned.

At UCLA, for example, the “Fit Squad” leads blue and while collar workers alike on the track and in the gym for walks, stretches and exercises – in the middle of the workday. The squad is a mobile unit of fitness educators who also bring ergonomic and injury prevention programs to campus workplaces.

“We actually teach exercise principles so that participants can learn to develop their own exercise routines,” says Elisa Terry, director of the UCLA Recreation FitWell Program, in a video about its services.

Its core concepts include cardiovascular exercise, resistance training, back care and injury prevention, flexibility, nutrition and mindful eating. “It’s not rocket science, but people who move and take care of their bodies are much less likely to be injured and are healthier, happier and more productive individuals,” says Terry.

Maria Leon who works in the campus’ General Service says she always feels very good after a session. “I learn now to stand properly, how to sit properly, and how to relax my back when I’m tired,” she said.

In February, Santa Barbara launched a new “Fit Squad” program, the first in a series of 10-week sessions conducted during employees’ breaks and/or lunch hours. Trainers lead free strength and stretch exercises on lawns and in breezeways, where some 20 to 30 employees show up for each session.

At UC Berkeley, the WorkFIT program, a collaboration between Recreational Sports and Health Services, targets employees who may be at high risk of injury. WorkFIT trainers, for example, conduct regular exercise sessions for dining facility employees, who do a lot of bending and lifting on the job. 

“I noticed that the employees are really happy with their involvement (in the program),” says Norma Jamison-Birk, general manager of Crossroads Dining at Berkeley, in a video about the program. “They look forward to WorkFIT on Monday and Wednesday. We found out that in the short time they’ve been doing the program, they’re finding themselves getting stronger, strengthening their backs and legs.”

WorkFIT also trains those whose jobs may have them sitting for long hours. It runs a mid-day exercise program at the Haas School of Business to get workers on their feet, out of the office and into better physical shape. 

“Giving the staff the opportunity and freedom to participate in something like this is really important,” says Alicia Kubler, assistant dean, budget and operations, Haas School of Business. “It makes them more energized in the afternoon, makes them more productive in the afternoon, and they have a great time doing it.”

For more information about health and wellness programs at UC locations, visit the UC Living Well website.