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Guide to Improving Exercise Adherence in High-Risk Industries
Industries like construction, healthcare, and emergency response lose millions each year due to poor employee health, preventable injuries, and low physical preparedness. While most companies understand that exercise is important, consistent adherence—not just occasional participation—is where true impact lies.
At SiteWell Solutions, we’ve worked directly with tactical teams and industrial partners to identify practical ways employers can foster a culture of movement and accountability. This guide outlines key barriers and proven strategies for improving long-term exercise commitment.
Environmental Barriers and How to Overcome Them
Inconsistent access to appropriate training spaces is a major barrier. Cold weather, heat, or unpredictable schedules can quickly derail good intentions.
Employers can help by:
- Providing on-site training areas, even small ones
- Offering access to local gyms through partnerships
- Supporting flexible training schedules that fit shift work
We’ve helped organizations manage fitness centers and form gym access partnerships to ensure consistent training opportunities year-round.
Addressing Psychological Barriers to Motivation
Not everyone is driven by the same incentives. Some employees respond to external rewards like recognition or wellness incentives, while others are more internally motivated.
To improve adherence:
- Offer fitness challenges that are welcoming to all levels
- Encourage small wins to build momentum
- Promote community and accountability through friendly competition
SiteWell regularly runs motivational campaigns that begin with small, inclusive efforts and evolve into sustainable fitness habits that reduce injury and improve performance.
Making Fitness Affordable and Accessible
Economic concerns are often overlooked. Gym memberships, equipment, or travel can be a barrier for hourly or field-based staff.
Employers can:
- Subsidize or reimburse fitness-related expenses
- Provide on-site classes or equipment
- Offer access to free wellness events and health screenings
Leading companies are also investing in work hardening programs that go beyond fitness to help employees meet the physical demands of their roles safely and effectively.
Long-Term Strategies That Work
Sustainable change comes from confidence, consistency, and clarity.
To promote long-term adherence:
- Provide a range of movement options for different skill levels
- Use the habit loop model: cue, routine, reward
- Create routines employees can integrate into daily shifts (e.g. movement prep at the start of each day)
- Support goal setting with coaching or workshops
These strategies not only boost engagement—they build healthier, more resilient teams capable of meeting the demands of high-risk environments.
Written By: Michael Laverriere, MS, CSCS, SiteWell Solutions subcontractor supporting the NH National Guard SWIFT program.
About SiteWell Solutions
SiteWell Solutions provides injury prevention, workforce wellness, and performance training for high-risk industries. We support HR, Safety, Wellness, and Operations leaders with proven strategies in occupational strength and conditioning, work hardening, prehabilitation, nutrition coaching, and mental resilience programs. We’re here to reduce workplace injuries, lower costs, improve employee well-being and productivity - so you can stay mission-focused.
Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest in employee wellness and injury prevention. Contact us at info@sitewellsolutions.com to discover how we help your workforce move and feel their best.
Disclaimer:
SiteWell Solutions is a contracted provider under Contract #W912TF22C0001 supporting the Strategic Wellness and Individual Fitness Training (SWIFT) program — a pilot initiative serving Army and Air National Guard service members and their families. All media used with participant consent. Content does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Defense.
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