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Staff take on the healthy lifestyle challenge
1 March, 2005
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Thomas, is leading the way for
staff at the University of the Sunshine Coast by being the first to
sign up for an innovative new health and lifestyle program on
campus.
The University of the Sunshine Coast Healthy Lifestyle Program
was developed by staff at the University's Centre for Healthy
Activities, Sport and Exercise (CHASE).
CHASE staff usually work with elite athletes, helping them
improve their performances, stay motivated and avoid injury, but
now University staff will be able to tap into that expertise.
CHASE Director, Associate Professor Brendan Burkett, said there
were plans to extend the Healthy Lifestyle Program into the
community later this year.
"We are trialing the Program on staff initially, but we plan to
open it up to students and then the community by the end of the
year," Professor Burkett said.
"Anyone will be able to take part, individuals, corporate groups
or teams.
"The aim is to help people make positive changes to all areas of
their lives, and in doing so improve their overall health and
wellbeing.
"Aside from the obvious benefits to people's health,
participants who stick to the program will also see an increase in
their energy levels and productivity at work.
"Participants will have access to health professionals including
dieticians, physiotherapists, sports psychologists and sport
medicos.
Participants will be tested using the same equipment used to
test athletes in Athens last year.
Pre-screening is the first step and all testing can be done on
campus.
"We have the latest equipment to test a person's health and
fitness and we can offer them an individual program that suits
their lifestyle and exercise preferences," Professor Burkett
said.
"It is not just about exercise though, it's a more holistic
approach than that. We can advise people on strategies to improve
their eating habits, how they can achieve a balance in all areas of
their lives, the importance of relaxation and stress management
skills.
"Staff can take part in whatever exercise suits them, whether
it's yoga or touch football, teams are organised through CHASE and
staff can join in a lunch time walking group or when it suits
them."
The Program is supported by the University with staff being
offered a $50 voucher when they sign up.
"Some of the tests do cost money. Pre-screening costs about $30,
so staff have $20 to put toward classes to get them started,"
Professor Burkett said.
It is planned that the Program will also include free healthy
lifestyle information sessions that will be open to the public
later in the year.