Daily boot camps, nutrition and a ‘biggest loser challenge’ were all on offer to the Palmerston North City Council staff who got involved with the 10 week programme developed by 3rd year students of the UCOL Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science degree.
Working with members of the staff at PNCC allowed the students to design their own approach to a corporate wellness programme that could run over many weeks – this was the first year of a three year relationship with the Council that the internship has taken place.
Through the programme students wanted to see participants increasing gym usage, as well as improve gym and health education.
“I feel fitter and feel as though I could give anything a go.” Said Barbara Whitaker “They are all happy and put a smile on your face even if you are struggling with a workout.”
The results at the end of the programme showed that the number of people using the gym space and overall visits of individuals increased. Longer term measure of success were the fantastic relationships that have been built between our students at the council staff - with staff now determined to keep exercising with the knowledge and experience they have gained.
“I have found them to be friendly, positive and encouraging, helping me to push myself to exceed where I didn’t think I could. They are always checking that you are using the equipment correctly to get the optimum work-out and therefore not putting yourself at risk of doing any damage to yourself. They have suggested adjustments to the exercises where necessary to accommodate personal abilities or disabilities.” Said Kerrin Van Gemerden
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