A facilities manager and dad-to-be from Charlton has been ranked as one of the fittest workers in Hampshire.
Mark Raithby, who’s 28 and due to become a dad for the first time in 10 weeks, has been hand picked by the Hampshire and IOW Workplace Challenge as one of their top 40 fittest workers.
Mark, and other employees at Andover Leisure Centre and hundreds of workplaces around the county, have documented their exercise activities on the Hampshire and IOW workplace challenge website.
The programme is aimed at promoting sport, physical activity and health improvements across the UK’s workplaces. And was introduced locally to Andover Leisure Centre, and other Valley Leisure sites, by community manager, Liz Murray.
Mark loved the idea of a challenge that would bring out his competitive side among the fitness team at the centre. And he’s taken it very seriously.
“I exercise before or after work, I make sure I bring my gym gear with me to work, so I have no excuse. I always prepare food the night before work and if I am training in the morning I will get by gym stuff ready the night before also. I also walk to and from work a few days a week as well as walking the dog every day,” said Mark.
“Things might change a bit when the baby is born but I am determined to do as much as I can because doing exercise makes me feel better, work better and I’m sure it will even help make me be a better dad,” he said.
People can spend up to 60% of their waking hours at work, so taking part in the workplace challenge is providing workers with a fun and competitive reason to get their recommended 150 minutes of activity a week.
As well as numerous health benefits, adults who are more physically active are generally happier, less stressed and can concentrate better. It can help people gain a better work-life balance and greater job satisfaction too.
Kevin Paterson, CEO of Valley Leisure said: “We’re delighted that Mark has taken this challenge on and grasped with both hands. He’s shown enormous commitment and we’re delighted it has helped him feel fitter and stronger. It’s good for him and us, as his employer.”
