News | 4/10/08

Media Credit: Kris Marsh [Click to enlarge]

Branches of the University have teamed up to improve student wellness one step at a time.

Chartwells, auxiliary services, campus recreation services, parking and transportation services, and the Wellness Center sponsored the Counter Culture kickoff Wednesday in the University Union Potomac Lounge.

The program, which includes the distribution of free pedometers to students, faculty and staff, focuses on wellness and a healthy lifestyle by supporting students and faculty in counting their steps.

"The goal is to create awareness about a healthy lifestyle, specifically walking. It is very simple, and you don't have to go to the gym for 30 minutes. It is really pushing for a very basic thing that everyone does, everyday," Pam Harvat, assistant director for fitness and wellness for campus recreation services, said.

All participants received a T-shirt and a pedometer that will count the amount of steps they take everyday.

"You just clip it to your belt and record. It's a great, easy way to keep up with how you're doing exercise wise," BriAnne Bentivegna, a freshman chemistry major, said.

The kick off event had a steady flow of students and faculty coming in to sign up and get their pedometer.

"I think the program as written is fun and competitive and it's something different and it's increasing awareness," Roy Cubbler, resident district manager of dining services with Chartwells, said. "I hope personally that it forces me to get up off my desk and walk to a meeting rather than take my car, and I hope to make the conscious effort to walk more."

The program will offer prizes every week for the participants. Some of the categories include, most improved and most steps.

"Retail and dining points and water bottles are a few prize ideas. Smaller prizes will be given on a weekly basis and larger ones given towards the end," Ralph Valle, director of marketing and communication in auxiliary services, said.

Students, faculty and staff interested in participating can sign up at campus recreation services in Burdick Hall. The program ends May 14.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools