May Is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

MAY IS NATIONAL PHYSICAL FITNESS AND SPORTS MONTH

Experts in Ball State University's School of Physical Education are available to provide information related to National Physical Fitness and Sports Month during May.

TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE SEDENTARY: Recent research shows that at least 25 percent of us are completely sedentary, contributing to more than 250,000 deaths each year. Gregory B. Dwyer, assistant director of Ball State's Adult Physical Fitness Program, says is all it takes is accumulating at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most weekdays. Contact him by E-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (765) 285-8695.

ARE CHILDREN FIT ENOUGH? In the past decade, there has been increased interest in youth fitness and activity, according to Anthony D. Mahon, physical education professor. Most debate centers on whether children receive sufficient physical activity and maintain desirable fitness levels. Understanding the physiological and psychological determinants of activity and exercise habits in the growing child is important in establishing developmentally acceptable practices, Mahon says. Contact him by E-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (765) 285-8693.

WELLNESS COURSE CHANGES STUDENT ATTITUDES: Lack of physical activity, poor nutritional habits and unmanaged stress are all linked to health problems, says Gwen Robbins, coordinator of Ball State's Fitness, Sport and Leisure Studies Program. However, due to participation in a fitness/wellness course taught by the School of Physical Education, Ball State students made significant increases in positive attitude change toward exercise, good dietary habits, the importance of nutrition information and stress management. Positive attitude change is the first step in making healthy lifestyle changes, Robbins says. Contact her by E-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (765) 285-5171.

OLDER ADULTS SHOULD STAY ACTIVE: Research findings demonstrate positive benefits for older adults who continue to exercise and lead an active lifestyle. Dee Ann Birkel, physical education professor, states that older adults can help themselves maintain an independent lifestyle if they continue daily activities. Contact her by E-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (765) 285-5166.

-30-

(NOTE TO EDITORS: Ball State's Internet home page is www.bsu.edu. To receive news releases by E-mail, write [email protected] or call (765) 285-1560.) A. Barker 5/7/98