Anantara Abu Dhabi has implemented its own Biggest Loser challenge for its team members to encourage better lifestyle habits, eating and challenges to essentially increase productivity.
Area general manager, Wael Soueid, explained that the health and wellbeing of Anantara’s people is at the core of what makes them a preferred employer and that given the nature of the business, hoteliers often work long hours, but despite having the best quality cuisine around them can have poor diet.
“Extended hours and sometimes stressful roles delivering luxury for guests with high expectations takes its toll and can be on occasion at the expense of good eating habits, exercise and the pursuit of active hobbies beyond work. Many people are not aware of the links between health and productivity.”
“We have created our own internal version of the ‘Biggest Loser’ in an attempt to improve morale, lower stress, increase self esteem and drive productivity.”
Anantara’s Biggest Loser challenge embraces healthy eating including dietary guidelines and provision of healthy alternatives in the team member restaurant at each hotel, an exercise plan and access to classes and gym as well as regular weigh in and consultations with in-house personal trainers.
“Through implementing the Biggest Loser challenge we are expecting positive business impacts such as reduced absenteeism from sick days, increased concentration, work focus and performance.” Said Soueid.
“In the current economic climate all businesses need to look at their human capital and place greater emphasis on wellbeing and ensuring each team member is as productive as possible. We want our Anantara team in Abu Dhabi to turn up to work and switch on their brains and move into overdrive. Not just show up and turn off.”
