DHR encourages being active this summer

July 12, 2007

Atlanta (GA) – The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) wants you to remain active this summer. While it’s hot outside, take the opportunity to go for a cool refreshing swim. Not a swimmer? Take some lessons this summer; they’re available at most public pools, YMCA’s and other places. It’s not necessary to know how to swim to get exercise in a pool. Begin walking, gradually work up to running, or add leg circles and other exercises in a pool. The buoyancy and resistance of the water make for an easier exercise time with a force more than 10 times greater than air. Plus the water keeps you cool while you workout.

“It’s important to maintain physical activity year-round,” said Stuart Brown, M.D., director of DHR’s Division of Public Health. “Regular, moderate physical activity can help you live longer and improves quality of life. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity five to seven days per week. Serious health effects often result from sedentary lifestyles. Doing things as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away from a store can make a difference,” said Brown.

There are numerous ways to incorporate more activity into your daily routine. Put on some music and dance; walk during breaks at work; move around while watching television; walk the dog; keep comfortable shoes in the car or office; and always be ready for activity.

In March 2005, Governor Sonny Perdue and DHR launched the Live Healthy Georgia campaign, an initiative designed to raise awareness about how to: Be Active, Eat Healthy, Be Smoke Free, Get Checked, and Be Positive. The principal message of the campaign is that moderate lifestyle changes such as improving food choices and getting more physical activity can have a significant impact on health.

For more information about being active and about the Live Healthy GeorgiaCampaign visit: www.livehealthygeorgia.org.

Resources
Places that offer water aerobics, swimming, or water therapy classes include:

Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program - Exercise without putting excess strain on your joints and muscles. The gentle activities in warm water, with guidance from a trained instructor, will help you gain strength and flexibility. These classes are offered all over Georgia. For locations and more information you may call 800-933-7023 or visit: http://ww2.arthritis.org/communities/chapters/SignMeupProg.asp?idchap=19.

YMCA – Many YMCA’s around Georgia offer swimming, water aerobics, and water therapy classes. You may visit http://www.ymca.net/ and put in the local zip code for information about YMCA locations nearby.

Public Swimming Pools – Check ‘Swimming Pools – Public’ in the local yellow pages.

State colleges and universities – Many state colleges and universities offer swimming, water aerobics, and water therapy classes through continuing education departments. You may wish to contact a nearby college or university to check.

For information, contact:
Lisa Moery (404) 463-2299
lsmoery@dhr.state.ga.us