Affiliations: Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada | Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Mark Eys, Department of
Kinesiology/Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, N2L
3C5, Canada. Tel.: +1 519 884 0710, ext. 4157; Fax: +1 519 747 4594; E-mail:
meys@wlu.ca
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate the use of a group-mediated
cognitive behavioral (GMCB) exercise intervention approach within a corporate
environment. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty (n_{males}=17,
n_{females}=3) employees from two departments within a large
Canadian resource company took part in the study. The average age was 43.50
years (SD=8.60, range=29 to 60) for males and 49.70 years (SD)=6.40, range=45
to 57) for females. METHODS: A mixed methods case study approach was adopted to assess
the response to and effectiveness of the GMCB program within a corporate
setting. These included field notes, weekly fitness logs, anthropometric
measurements, and end of program focus group sessions. RESULTS: Qualitative measures pointed toward positive outcomes while
quantitative results found significant decreases in body mass index, body fat
percentage, and waist girth over the duration of the program. Descriptive
statistics revealed an increase in exercise frequency and a strong preference
for unstructured, group or mixed (i.e., group and individual) based activity
during the program. CONCLUSION: The GMCB protocol can be successful at encouraging
physical fitness within a corporate environment with the potential to address
other health and wellness issues and to aid in vocational team building.
