Spring 2016 staff wellness events

by Kathleen McCoy  |   

Ben Perrell, a student intern supporting the UAA Staff Council/HPER collaboration to bring wellness breaks to campus, reports these repeating events to date: more events and locations will be added as student groups complete needs assessments with interested staff in additional buildings around and off campus::

Tuesdays

  • Rasmuson Hall, Room 303 11:30-Noon
  • PSB 217, 12-1 p.m. Workshop/stretching
  • University Center, 12:30-1 p.m. Circuit-style fitness
  • ADM 204, 1:30-1:45 p.m. Activity TBA

Thursdays

  • Rasmuson Hall, Room 303 11:30-Noon
  • University Center 12:30-1 p.m. Circuit-style fitness
  • PSB 122C, 1-2 p.m. Stretching and walk, weather dependent
  • EIB 413, 1:30-2 p.m. Pilates

Beginning March 1 through April 28

  • Bookstore upstairs: Every Tuesday/Thursday 1-1:30 p.m Two exceptions: Bookstore not available March 17 and March 22.. Activity TBA

More events and locations will be added as student health leaders  complete needs assessments with interested staff in additional buildings around and off campus.

Ben reported that 85 staff participated in the fall semester pilot project. Of that group, 35 responded to a spring semester survey on their fitness needs and wellness ideas. Staff reported they enjoyed the breaks, appreciated that activities were spread across campus so they could more easily attend a short break. Some said they felt more energized and better focused on work tasks.

The fall pilot provided walking, stretching, lunch-and-learn and 15-minute office fitness. Survey respondents said they would like to see more stress reduction and flexibility activities such as yoga, tai-chi, and even meditation.

One complaint indicated some activities were too difficult to do in work clothes. The biggest criticism of the pilot was a lack of consistency, organization and scheduling. Given that fall was a pilot, this allows for plenty of room for improvement.

Respondents said they would like more support for the activities, take home materials to read. Of  those surveyed, 90 percent said they were getting a health benefit. Having an onsite leader for the activities was a draw.

Leave feedback and questions for the ongoing wellness breaks project at uaa_staffwellness@uaa.alaska.edu.

 

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