Tape Measures Fitness at Nik

Rochester (Democrat & Chronicle, 2/28/2000) - If you're more that 5 feet tall, better watch your head at Nik Entertainment Co.'s office in Rochester. The party band business -- best known for such acts as Nik and the Nice Guys, Fever: The Wrath of Polyester, and Alpha Delta Nik -- stretches wide tape across a hallway about four or five feet above the floor. "We have to duck under the tape to proceed," said Gary Webb, president and general manager. "After a full or half-day of this, your muscles react."
It's part of Nik's commitment to fitness, Webb said. The company also offers aerobics for its 12 office staff employees and 90 performers at 6 p.m. on weekdays, on-site. Webb said he participates whenever he is in town.

"For the most part, the women at Nik stay in shape -- not so with the men," he said. So, at meetings with the company's male employees, they are asked two questions. If either question is answered "no," the person must commit to a fitness program. The questions: 1) Can you tie your shoes while standing up? 2) In the shower, can you see your ... baby toe?