India's corporate wellness shift: From gyms to digital health after COVID-19

Corporate health programmes in India have changed dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic. Large companies have shifted from in-person fitness classes and check-ups to digital wellness platforms. These new initiatives now include mental health support and personalised online services to tackle rising chronic disease risks.

A recent national study and workplace health screenings have also revealed key trends in cardiac risk among urban employees, with most falling into low-risk categories but some groups showing concerning patterns.

Before the pandemic, Indian companies focused on traditional wellness activities like gym sessions and on-site health checks. After lockdowns began, many switched to virtual solutions. Platforms such as HopeQure's automated mental health programme, launched in January 2021, became more common. These digital tools aimed to keep employees engaged while addressing stress and sedentary lifestyles.

Yet challenges remain. A 2023 Wellness 360 study found that 52% of employees showed low acceptance of these programmes, and 40% of firms faced budget limits. Despite this, the shift to online wellness has helped reduce cardiovascular risks by encouraging healthier habits during remote work. Recent health data highlights mixed results. A national ICMR-led study reported that 84.9% of adults were at low cardiac risk, while 14.4% fell into the moderate-risk group. Workplace screenings by MediBuddy found similar trends: 91.9% of urban corporate employees had low cardiac risk, but 8.1% of those aged 31–40 were at elevated risk. Another 2.82% were in the moderate-risk category. Other concerns emerged in lipid profiles. Among those tested, 45% had high triglyceride levels, 30% had an unhealthy total lipid ratio, and 11% showed high LDL cholesterol. Gender differences were also noted—79.9% of high-risk cases were men, while only 2.06% of women screened fell into the high-risk group. Age played a role too. In the 31–40 bracket, 10% were at moderate or high risk, compared to 8% in the 41–50 age group.

The move to digital health programmes reflects a broader effort to adapt to post-pandemic work life. While most urban employees remain at low cardiac risk, the data reveals pockets of concern, particularly in lipid levels and gender disparities. Companies continue to refine these initiatives, balancing cost constraints with the need for effective, accessible wellness support.