Wellness International was born out of a desire and commitment to improve the health and wellbeing of personnel at adidas (UK). In 1997, Wellness International started working with the adidas (UK) workforce to encourage exercise, lifestyle intervention programmes and nutritional guidance.

13 years later, the services offered to the adidas (UK) workforce by Wellness International include an onsite lifestyle centre, fully equipped gym, Know Your Numbers testing, lifestyle coaching, stress coaching, exercise stress testing, resting and exercise electrocardiograms (ECG’s), medical support including an on-site doctor and sport-specific training and coaching.

At least 90% of the adidas (UK) employees on-site ‘know their numbers’ for blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index and their resulting cardiac risk score. They are also supplied with full dietary advice, provided target dates and a personal trainer. In 2008 the average days lost from sickness and injury was 4.95 per employee against a retail marketing sector average of 8.5 and this fell to an industry best of 2.63 in 2009.

Barry O’Conner [Head of Facilities at adidas (UK)] describes the evidence as ‘compelling’ that Wellness International interventions have reduced absence rates significantly. adidas (UK) believe that fitter people are ‘mentally tougher’ and far more productive. Wellness International are now working with adidas (UK) to support the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London to ensure their entire workforce is fit and healthy.

The adidas (UK) Wellness Centre received the IHRSA ‘Wellness Best Practice’ Award for Europe and has been recognised by the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies Awards which resulted in adidas (UK) receiving the 5 Star Heath and Safety Award from the British Safety Council as well as the Sword of Honour 2009.