As part of our journey to become the fittest firm in the East, we are now at the end of the first week of our FitOdyssey programmes. Here we look at how we’re getting on so far in the first of a series of weekly blogs that will inform and entertain you with our progress….

Week one of our thirteen week program is coming to a close, and we have to say the results are very promising already. We have some weight loss, people rising early for brisk countryside walks and the skipping ropes of old seeing the light of day once more. The dedication we have witnessed has been very impressive; some people are even managing a lunchtime walk at work, with a few stretches and exercises thrown in for good measure.

A great example of our fitness efforts are those of Tony Fisher. Our Senior Partner is so dedicated to the cause that he’s been hitting the gym at 6:15 am….. But he assures us that informing the group of this morning trip is in no way “showing off”! The uptake of Fitbits has also been very encouraging as participants look to understand an array of daily activities and stats which can assist in their goal for improved fitness.

Another key benefit for us is the increase in communication that we are seeing. Naturally, being a firm of over 160 people means that not everyone will not speak to everyone else, but the Fitodyssey programme is changing this. Employees from different offices and departments are now chatting about their fitness, meeting up for group walks in the Dedham sun and working in teams to motivate each other to achieve their goals. This increase in communication, competition and motivation is invaluable to us and it’s all from the first week alone!

Furthermore, our exploits into the world of fitness are benefiting our pockets…. Trips to McDonald’s are lessening and being replaced by homemade food, the supermarket staff no longer recognises us as we step through the door and our walking shoes are being used.

So what’s next? Well we have all been working hard on our Fitodyssey programmes, whether that means skipping or going for long runs or simply watching what you eat, and the benefits are already beginning to be felt. The second and slightly more strenuous week begins on Monday as we all step up a level and look continue our fine form in living healthier lives.