Wollongong community members now have help to manage and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease as Wollongong City Council launches the BEAT IT Physical Activity and Lifestyle Program.
BEAT IT is a 12 week program developed by the Australian Diabetes Council to help people have fun and get active while learning practical ideas to help them stay healthy.
Recent NSW Health data shows that a higher proportion of men are overweight or obese than women (68 per cent compared to 55 per cent for women), making it important that people exercise and eat a balanced diet.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery OAM said it benefits an entire community if people keep physically active and are eating a healthy and balanced diet.
“Sometimes when you’re struggling with your weight, or have health complications like diabetes, heart disease, obesity or high blood pressure it can feel difficult to know where to start and how to get active. The BEAT IT program can help to get you health back on track,” said Cr Bradbery.
“Council has received funding from the Australian Government through the Healthy Communities Initiative. One of the first programs being rolled out with this funding is the Beat IT program. The BEAT IT program is aimed at people who are living with diabetes or at risk of developing weight related chronic disease.
“Council is aware of the rising incidence of obesity in our population and Council’s strategic direction to be a vibrant and liveable city means providing a variety of public places and opportunities for recreation, leisure and cultural activities and to look at how the development of our urban environment can assist our residents to be physically active.”
Council’s Healthy Communities Initiative will support a range of community-based physical activity and healthy eating programs as well as developing a range of policies to support a healthy lifestyle for Wollongong citizens.
BEAT IT sessions will be held at Council’s Beaton Park and Lakeside Leisure Centres starting in early February. A limited number of places are available free for eligible participants. To be eligible for the program you need to be an adult living in Wollongong City, unemployed or not working full time, and at risk of developing weight-related chronic disease.
For more information or to register your interest in the program contact Dejan Piljevic (02) 4227 7754. Developed for all levels of health, weight and fitness, the BEAT IT program is intended for people at risk of developing weight related chronic disease. For more information see the Beat It web site.