Brookhaven Parks and Recreation Department introduces new wellness program

Brookhaven residents looking to be more physically active can participate in a new wellness program through Brookhaven’s Parks and Recreation Department.

In partnership with Human Kinetics, a company that provides information related to physical activity through books, online courses, and other materials, Brookhaven’s Parks and Recreation Department will begin offering “Active Living Every Day” classes, starting this month.

Described by officials as a 12-week wellness program to help residents build healthier, active lives, the “Active Living Every Day” classes will be held weekly on Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Briarwood Recreation Community Center located at 2235 Briarwood Road, with the first class scheduled for June 9.

“Active Living Every Day is a 12-week behavior change program, focused on helping sedentary adults fit physical activity into their lives in realistic ways,” said officials. “Participants will learn the skills needed to become physically active, such as overcoming barriers, setting realistic goals, building confidence, and staying motivated.”

The $60 cost per participant for the program includes classes, a program book and access to additional support through the program’s online resources.

“Brookhaven is committed to providing health and wellness opportunities for the community.” said Parks and Recreation Director Michael King. “Active Living Every Day supports that mission by helping residents take small but meaningful steps toward long-term health.”

To further motivate participants, Brookhaven will offer prizes for attendance.

According to officials with Human Kinetics, Active Living Every Day is based on research that has resulted in two findings about physical activity and health:

• Physical activities do not need to be strenuous or time-consuming to benefit health. Accumulating 150 minutes of moderate intensity, such as a brisk walk, 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity each week can result in significant health benefits.
• People are more likely to become and stay physically active when taught appropriate lifestyle skills. These skills include identifying and overcoming barriers to physical activity, learning to fit physical activity into a busy schedule, increasing self-confidence, building social support, setting realistic goals, and staying motivated.

Skills that will be taught in the classes include:

• Identifying and addressing barriers to physical activity.
• Increasing self-confidence about becoming more physically active.
• Creating goals and rewards for physical activity.
• Developing social support.
• Recovering from lapses in physical activity.

“The classes are designed to be practical and personalized,” said officials. “Participants will not only learn how to become more active but also discover ways to make physical activity a natural part of their daily routines. With initiatives like Active Living Every Day, Brookhaven continues to promote a culture of health and wellness, providing residents with tools to live healthier lives.”

For more information and to register for the Active Living Every Day program, visit https://secure.rec1.com/GA/city-of-brookhaven/catalog.