Berkeleyan
Make May the fittest month of all
University Health Services urges campus cubicle potatoes to get a move on
29 April 2004
| |    Free use of the excercise equipment and other goodies at the Recreational Sports Facility is among the options available to those who participate in Cal Fitness Month. |
The prospect of getting fit is enough to make some people dive onto the couch and reach for the remote control. University Health Services would like to encourage a different response and, to do so, is promoting May as Cal Fitness Month.
“Any little bit of activity helps,” says Kristl Buluran, a health educator with Health*Matters. “People tend to get overwhelmed by the thought of starting an exercise program.” The effects of exercise are cumulative, says Buluran, and even ten minutes a day makes a difference.
“You don’t need to join a gym or spend money on expensive equipment to get physically active,” she insists. “The easiest thing to do is just to walk.”
To develop healthy new habits, Buluran suggests starting with small steps to add physical activity to your day. Set aside ten minutes a day to walk or take the stairs, then slowly add ten more minutes until you build up to being physically active for 30 to 45 minutes three to five days a week.
Throughout Cal Fitness Month, UHS is sponsoring events to help get people moving.
May 5: Take the Stairs Day
Fight the temptation to ride the elevator. Instead, opt for the stairs throughout the day. Register on the Health*Matters website to receive “I took the stairs” stickers for yourself and to share with co-workers.
May 10 and May 24: Step Into Recreational Sports
During the weeks of May 10 and May 24, the Recreational Sports Facility is holding an open house. Bring your Cal ID for a tour or free use of the gym, or to take a class.
May 20: Bike to Work Day
On Thursday, May 20, join thousands of Bay Area commuters as they cycle to work or to transit during Spring Bike Week. Energizer stations, located on or near campus, will provide free bike licenses, refreshments, and giveaways. The day is sponsored by UC Berkeley Parking & Transportation. Register for a chance to win prizes at 511.org/btwd/.
June 2 – August 20: Summer Walking Group
The Health*Matters Walking Group meets at the Campanile every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 12:10 p.m. for a 30-minute fitness walk through campus.
For information, or to register for Take the Stairs Day or Bike to Work Day, visit .uhs.berkeley.edu/facstaff/healthmatters/stepuptofitness.shtml