Wellness event to tackle obesity

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1: On Wednesday, September 28, 2011, the Department of Health will host 'Celebrating Wellness' – part of Caribbean Wellness Day 2011 (September 10) World Physiotherapy Day (September 8), and the ongoing 'Move More Bermuda' campaign.

Celebrating Wellness aims to encourage the public to exercise regularly and lead a healthy lifestyle, and will highlight a number of simple lifestyle changes people can make to do so.  This interactive event, ultimately geared to reducing the number of overweight and obese individuals in Bermuda, will consist of entertainment, activities and information booths.

The event is aimed at all residents – of all ages – and will be held at Victoria Park from 5pm until 8pm.

Organizations taking part include Argus, BF&M, Colonial, Bermuda Heart Foundation, Bermuda Diabetes Association, Open Airways, Court House Gym, Bermuda Physiotherapy Association and many others.  There will also be vendors on-site offering healthy food options.

The Department of Health’s Health Promotion Coordinator Virloy Lewin said:

“We will be inviting the businesses that fall under the Chamber of Commerce who have health-related products to join us on the night to demonstrate and/or highlight to the public what is available to assist them to live healthy or healthier lives – from exercise clothing to the latest exercise equipment.  This will allow the public to try the activities to see if they suit their needs, introduce them to new things that would encourage them to move more and/or remind them of what is available.”

The lineup of activities includes zumba, line dancing, Tai Chi, TRX, spinning and others.

There will be various free screenings including those for blood glucose levels (for diabetes), body composition and blood pressure.

The Department of Health is partnering with the Chamber of Commerce and the Corporation of Hamilton for this event and is encouraging all interested members of the public to come out and to participate.