Alaska Airlines Employees Launch Fitness Program, Aim To Walk 41 Million Steps

2/27/2008 9:14 a.m.

Several Alaska Airlines Sitka, Alaska, employees trekked across Southeast Alaska last month. They're walking the Iditarod Trail this week and then they'll hoof it to Hawaii and back.

These newly motivated wellness buffs can't walk on water, of course, but they can hike the equivalent miles. Their goal is to cover all of Alaska Airlines' routes.

Sitka Customer Service Agents Sheri Buggins and Corrine Hein have started a fitness program at the station aimed at keeping employees well and encouraging active lifestyles. The two were motivated by a workplace wellness training program they attended called "Steps to a Healthier U.S.," sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Sitka.

Armed with pedometers provided by new healthcare provider Premera, their goal is to "walk the Alaska Airlines system." They figure that amounts to 41,672,000 steps.

So far, they've logged 4.5 million steps with their daily walks and converting other physical activities such as weight lifting, swimming, bicycling, snow shoveling and snowshoeing.

And don't look for donuts in the station lunchroom. Employees have been learning about "power foods" and sharing healthy snacks, including a monthly soup lunch. They even have their mission in writing: "Establish and maintain a positive work environment and support our employees' mental and physical well-being. Our team shall foster a work site culture that encourages anyone's desire to make healthy lifestyle choices and exemplify the Alaska Spirit."

Their motivation is getting healthy, but they're also dedicating the effort to friend and longtime co-worker "Sitka Sue" Frank, who died from cancer last year.

"Sue watched her diet and was always out walking — seven miles a day was her goal. She inspired many to do the same," said Buggins.

For their efforts, the Sitka Employee Wellness Coalition recently awarded the station as "Well Workplace of the Month."

Buggins said the group is challenging employees at other stations to start a "walk for health" program. "It's a fun way to do things with your co-workers, all the while getting on the road to a healthier lifestyle."