Edith Cowan University (ECU) has launched a free exercise program to teach people how to improve their physical and mental health.
Last week, Edith Cowan University (ECU) launched a new exercise program, free and available to anyone 18 years of age or older living in the North Metro Perth region. The new exercise program is offered through ECU’s Psychological Services Centre, located in Wanneroo and is also available online.
The goal of this new program is to help anyone who wants to take their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
About the exercise program
The new program consists of 13-weeks workout plan, and involves exercise physiologists and their students teaching participants various exercises to improve physical and mental well-being.
The program includes activities like sit-ups, push-ups, squats and lunges to elevate the heart rate just enough to gain the maximum health benefit.
No previous workout experience or equipment is required, according to the official press release, and once participants complete the program, they are welcome to continue using the service.
According to project lead, Dr Caitlin Fox-Harding, while the benefits of physical exercise are well known, for many people it can be difficult to start.
“Everyone understands exercise is good – the biggest question researchers are trying to answer is motivation,” Dr Fox-Harding said.
“A common deterrent is many people don’t want to have people look at them while they exercise, or they don’t know what they’re doing and feel inadequate. So, we’re looking at making manageable steps for people to introduce them to activities they can do at home,” she added.
In addition to exercise programs, participants of this new initiative will receive information about small lifestyle changes they can make to improve their health.
According to Dr Fox-Harding, the new exercise can play a major role in improving mental health, and being offered free, can make a significant difference for many. “A lot of people can’t afford some of the mental health services available, so we’re offering them something free,” Dr Fox-Harding said.
“This isn’t a gym which offers two weeks free and then makes you pay. And once people complete the program, they’re not kicked out: they can keep coming back,” she added.
For more information about this program, GPs and patients are welcome to contact Dr Caitlin Fox-Harding at c.foxharding@ecu.edu.au.