An online program offered by Health Enhancement Systems (HES) called 5 on 5, creates a way to track healthy eating habits in the format of a basketball tournament.

Described as a workplace wellness program based on social support principles by HES, teams of five compete virtually against other corporate teams in an effort to incorporate team activities with health improvement goals.

Individual points are earned by healthy eating choices such as three or more servings of vegetables a day, and those points are then logged into the online system where a shot clock counts down the day’s ‘game time.’

A series of ‘baskets,’ ‘dunks,’ and ‘free throws’ are offered as participants log their points and track their team standings over a 6-, 8-, or 12-week period of play.

HES said that the theme-based campaign particularly appeals to male employees who may be more hesitant to participate in these types of workplace wellness programs otherwise.

A creator of more than 20 workplace wellness programs, HES released a white paper regarding studies on social supports and healthy behaviors entitled "Social Support: Impact on Health and the Bottom Line," which can be accessed at: www.healthenhancementsystems.com/sswp.

For more information on the 5 on 5 program, visit www.5on5.com.

Address: Health Enhancement Systems, PO Box 1035, Midland, MI 48641; (800) 326-2317, www.hesonline.com.