Tackling obesity in the Murrumbidgee

Free fitness camps in Griffith and Wagga Wagga are helping to address obesity, diabetes and mental health in the region, thanks to funding provided by Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN).

The Live Life Get Active fitness camp in Griffith kicked off on 5 December, after the initiative was first floated at the MPHN’s inaugural Pitch Night earlier this year – an event aimed at supporting innovative solutions to address community health needs.

The fitness camps, which seek to build healthy, fitter communities, have been running in Wagga Wagga for the past 18 months, and will now continue as a result of the funding secured at Pitch Night.

Griffith trainer Chris Smith said the camps provide an ideal starting point for locals looking to improve their fitness or health in general.

“This is the perfect opportunity for the people of Griffith to start creating some healthy habits for themselves and improve their lifestyle,” he said.

“It’s also a chance to meet some new people and make fitness fun.”

Wagga Wagga resident Lynn Kerslake started attending the fitness camps in August and said they have been of great benefit to herself and many others.

“I’m very happy with what I am learning about how to improve my health, and enjoy the opportunity to meet like-minded people,” Ms Kerslake said.

“The trainer is very informative and asks before we start if there are any injuries that she needs to be made aware of so she can adapt the exercise to suit.”

MPHN CEO Melissa Neal said data shows Griffith Local Government Area experiences a higher rate of obesity than the State average.

“At our Pitch Night held in Griffith in May, the Live Life Get Active program was well received as one way of addressing obesity by encouraging the local residents to come and try a free exercise program and receive advice about healthy eating,” Ms Neal said.

“The programs are conducted during school terms in local parks and at convenient times, allowing those who may not have financial resources or simply enough confidence to attend gyms to take part.

“I would certainly encourage people living in Griffith who might need support to commence exercise to get in touch with the program.”

Sessions take place twice each weekday at Ted Scobie Oval, Griffith, at 7.30am and 9.30am. The final session for 2019 will be on December 20, with the first session for the year taking place on January 28. For more information about the free fitness camps, visit www.livelifegetactive.com.