I wrote in a previous blog that I’ve started wearing a kinetic activity monitor (KAM) from Kersh Wellness. The company I work for has made this available, for those who wish to participate, in an effort to encourage people to be more aware of their activity levels and to – hopefully – make healthier lifestyle choices.
Those who participate are eligible for financial rewards in the form of additional health care spending dollars or reduced premiums.
Before receiving my KAM I had a confidential health assessment based on height, weight, blood pressure, blood work, and by filling out a questionnaire about my medical history and lifestyle. I started wearing the KAM on August 1.
In the toilet
The fact that I dropped my KAM in the toilet the other day (got it out with lightening quick speed so no damage done!) bears no relationship to what I think of the program. I think it’s a wonderful opportunity. As a person living with heart disease, I’m probably more aware of my choices than many people, but putting that little device on my belt each day certainly reminds me to get in my walk, take the stairs, or make sure I’m eating my fruits and vegetables (aiming for no less than five servings of fruits and veggies per day).
Not everyone feels the same way I do about this program and some, in fact, even say Kersh Wellness sucks.
It totally baffles my mind why anyone would be loathe to make use of an opportunity to live a healthier life. Getting active is not only good for your health, it helps you look good (shed some added pounds) and feel good! Adding more activity to your daily life can also reduce stress levels, increase your energy, and improve sleep and digestion.
Yes, a company that institutes this program for its employees may benefit from lower absenteeism and reduced use of health benefits (that’s the goal!), but the individual who takes care of his or her health will ultimately be the big winner.
It’s a win – win!
Gotta go get dressed and put on my KAM. I’ve got a whole wonderful day waiting for me out there!
2 responses so far ↓
Kevin // February 26, 2009 at 11:24 pm |
Hi Sandra I’m glad I read your comments.
When I first saw”Kersh Welness Sucks” I thought you were saying just that.
How does this product compare to a pedometer and what do you like most about it?
sandrathornton // February 28, 2009 at 12:06 am |
Hi Kevin,
It doesn’t measure distance or footsteps but rather activity. You aim for a certain number of “points” per day. It tells you how many of your points are in healthy living, how many are in active living and how many are in sports mode. You can also keep track of your servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
What I like most about it is two things – one is that it keeps me aware of my activity levels. Second is that my employer pays a bonus into our health spending account for achieving certain (very attainable) levels of activity.