E.ON U.S. employees love a challenge, and it appears they love to lose as well.

All 27 business offices challenged each other to a friendly competition to see which office could lose the most weight during the last five months of 2005. While employees may have vied for first place, they worked together, sharing recipes and websites that encouraged healthier lifestyles. A total of 57 employees participated in the challenge, with first place honors going to Field Business Office Manager Alan Sutton's group — which includes London, Harlan, Middlesboro, and Somerset offices — where employees lost a total of 100 pounds.

The challenges not only produced weight loss, but a sense of support among all participants. "Employees encouraged each other daily by only making healthy snacks available throughout the work day," said Jan Coleman, Field Business Office Manager. "Several reps also began walking and incorporating increased activity — such as walking at lunch, walking to the bank rather than driving, and working out regularly at the gym — into their work day. There is definitely an increased awareness for eating properly and portion control."

The business offices as a whole did so well — they lost a total of 265 pounds — that they plan to do another activity promoting wellness in 2006. "The big positive that I got from this challenge was how everyone was discussing how to live healthy. The project was an overall success for the participants, and hopefully we can do something else fun on being well—fit in 2006," said Tim Melton, Field Business Office Manager.

But the business offices weren't the only locations with employees making strides toward healthier lifestyles. Employees at 's Sebree Station participated in a fitness challenge and weight-loss contest. Participants weighed in during January or February and will be weighed again 60 days later. The employee who loses the highest percentage of weight will win prize money from contest entry fees ($5 per participant) and money matched by the plant.

Through these challenges, the company is taking a proactive step in maintaining the good health of its employees. "The relationship between good health and productivity is clear. That has a direct effect on the health care costs to which we all contribute and, ultimately, to the success of the company," said Barbara Hawkins, Manager, Corporate Health and Safety.

The company's wellness program offers health-related benefits year-round. Employees and/or spouses are eligible for weight-loss incentives, which include reimbursement for fees paid for an approved weight-loss program or fitness facility.