Little and large target of new health initiative

Date Published: 30-Aug-2012

Fathers who believe they and their children could benefit from more physical activity instead of watching television or playing video games are being asked to take part in a health promotion programme.

Bounce 2 is an intiative by HSE West’s Health Promotion Department aimed at changing peoples’ lifestyles which takes place in Galway city and will last for twelve weeks.

Along with Titans Basketball Club, the twelve-week physical activity and lifestyle awareness programme for overweight Dads and their eight-to-13 year old overweight children starts next month though there’s an information night in the Westside Community Centre next Tuesday at 7.30pm.

A similar inititative took place last year for children only but Bounce 2 this year includes Dads as studies show that fathers play a pivotal role in childrens’ lifestyles, especially in physical activity and sport.

Studies reveal that the father’s attitude is central to the eating and exercise habits of the entire family. Having an overweight or obese father significantly increases the child’s risk of being an unhealthy weight in childhood, with this tendency towards weight gain continuing into adulthood unless lifestyle habits within the family change.

Paul Gillen, Health Promotion Officer for HSE West, said: “Everyone from the fat-but-fit person to the couch potato, and all levels in between, is invited to participate. Everyone will be accommodated to go at their own pace.

“The programme will involve fun-based activity sessions, along with nutritional information sessions and motivational workshops for parents. Mums are also invited to attend the nutritional sessions so that a healthier lifestyle will involve all the family. The children too will learn about good nutrition, what’s in food and soft drinks, healthy snacks and correct portion sizes.“

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.