Local council aquatic and recreation centres may be the key to slowing Australia’s obesity epidemic through the ‘Better Being Exercise Referral Program’. Low cost gym programs are available at selected local council run facilities in Victoria for individuals aged 40-49 years who need to improve their health, not just for summer, but for life!

 

The Better Being Program is a new and unique Federal Government subsidised program aimed at increasing personal physical activity levels and improving the health of communities.  “A program like this has been needed for some time” says Jacquie Hooper, Better Being fitness instructor from the St Albans Leisure Centre, one of six pilot facilities involved in Better Being.  “The Better Being program decreases the barriers to exercise because it is so cheap, and provides support for like minded community members wanting to improve their health” Hooper said.

 

“Exercise Referral Programs are very common in the UK and America and it is great to see Australia catching up”, says Cindy Needham, Project Manager and Health Promotion Professional for Aquatics & Recreation Victoria.  “Local council run aquatic and recreation facilities are there for the community, and we hope to remove as many barriers as possible to being physically active through the Better Being program” says Needham.

 

Ian Swan, CEO of Aquatics & Recreation Victoria says “the Better Being Exercise Referral Program, which, demonstrates prevention and community-based primary care should be reflected in Australia’s Preventative Health Strategy.  Subsidised gym programs are a small price to pay for reduced health care costs and improved health in our communities”, Swan said.

 

Over six months the Better Being program includes seven group motivation, education and support sessions as well as two physical activity sessions a week to increase fitness levels.  The Better Being program is now enrolling people aged 40-49 who have been identified as ‘at high risk’ of type 2 diabetes.  For a once only $50 co-payment, this new program, with the support of trained staff gives participants the knowledge and skills to improve their health and change their lifestyle for the better.

Pilot programs are currently running or soon to commence in Ascot Vale, Sunshine, St Albans, Monash / Glen Waverley, Box Hill or Nunawading areas.  Community members interested in the program can visit the website www.aquaticsandrecreation.org.au/betterbeing, call (03) 8843 2000, or email info@aquaticsandrecreation.org.au for an information pack.

 

Participants must be referred by their doctor, places for the first programs are filling fast so be quick!