It’s often said that exercise is the best medicine—and for good reason. Physical activity has been prescribed in both the treatment and prevention of a variety of chronic conditions such as heart disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, depression and obesity.
On college campuses, finding ways to encourage students, faculty and staff to keep moving is an ongoing challenge—one that is embraced wholeheartedly at The University of Akron (UA).
In fact, UA is one of only 156 universities and colleges around the world to be honored by Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) – a nonprofit initiative co-launched by the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Medical Association—for its efforts to create a culture of wellness on campus.
The Exercise Science Club and the UA EIM leadership team in the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences on campus helped the University earn Silver level designation from the Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) program. The award was presented June 1 at EIM’s annual conference in San Diego.
Dr. Judith A. Juvancic-Heltzel, interim director for the School of Exercise and Nutrition Services, says UA’s Exercise is Medicine® Leadership team has created a system whereby students seeking health services on campus are screened using a Physical Activity Vital Sign tool.
If students do not meet general physical activity recommendations, they are provided with materials on the benefits of physical activity and on health and well-being. They are also provided a referral to resources, including the Student Recreation and Wellness Center on campus.
Asked about practical tips for increasing movement, Juvancic-Heltzel said, “There are 1,440 minutes in a day, so take 30 each day to enjoy our beautiful campus, take a walk, and explore a part of UA you have never seen.”
For faculty and staff, she recommends getting up every hour to move around: “Adding 250 steps every hour in an 8-hour work- day can add 2,000 steps to your day. Remember, it is never too late to start. Make today the start of a healthier you.”
Learn more about the Exercise Science Club and majors within the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, or check out the Wellness Center on campus.
Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd@uakron.edu