Sparta- The Law Firm of Laddey, Clark & Ryan LLC. Of Sparta and Denville is finding an enjoyable and creative way to increase productivity, lessen stress and promote overall wellness for their hard working and dedicated staff.

Seventeen attorneys and staff members have signed up to participate in a 10-week weight loss challenge.  Participants separated into teams competing for cash prizes based upon overall percentage of weight loss achieved by the end of the 10 weeks. Team captains work with their teammates to help motivate them and assist in meeting their goals. 

“Our firm has always been committed to promoting the well-being of our staff and attorneys. This contest is an innovative and exciting way to continue that tradition,” said Managing Partner and contest participant Thomas N. Ryan, Esq.

The firm is running seminars on Nutrition and Diet and Home Exercise. The group even took a trip to the Sussex County YMCA for a tour of the facility. While there, they participated in a contact kickboxing class taught by attorney Andrew Fraser of the Fraser Fight Club at the Y.

“When your staff is healthy, active and feeling good, the number of sick days taken decreases, stress decreases and overall productivity increases,” says Lauren Fraser Esq., member of the Health and Wellness Committee at Laddey Clark & Ryan LLC. “By investing in the health of their staff members, the firm will save money in the long run.”  

At the start of the contest, participants were “officially” weighed in by a nurse. She also spoke privately to each contestant about their personal health and realistic weight loss goals. 

 Receptionist Mary Beth Zayac feels the Weight Loss Challenge has been a real motivator in achieving healthy goals. “Since we see each other every day, my teammates and I keep each other on track,” adds Zayac. “We talk all day about going to the gym, and can’t get away with eating unhealthy food in the lunch room.”

The law firm plans to continue its Wellness initiative this spring with a Fitness Challenge.