Many occupations require workers to remain physically fit in order to complete their assignments. Sometimes it is possible to combine a love of sports with a means of earning a living. Police bicycle patrols permit many avid cyclists to accomplish this.
Bicycle police patrols became common in the 1890s. Police departments found bicycles effective for rapid response and the ability to traverse difficult terrain. Although motor vehicles have dominated law enforcement transportation, bicycles have undergone a resurgence with the use of mountain bikes.
Modern police bicycles have wide, deeply treaded tires and multiple gears. They allow officers to maneuver through confined spaces as well as off-road trails.
Police officers assigned to bicycle patrols are enthusiastic about riding. A typical patrol can require between five and fifteen miles of riding. A slow- paced ride will burn 400 calories per hour.
The International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA) provides training that includes stretching and fitness along with riding skills. Courses last one week and are held nationwide.
Other than police, EMS personnel and security officers utilize bicycles.
“Bicycle patrols add to visibility and communication with pedestrians and business owners,” said Mark Gendron, a Connecticut State Trooper assigned to Hebron who is trained by the IPMBA. The stealth approach of bicycles have aided in drug arrests and crowd control. Trooper Gendron keeps a bike rack on his patrol car so that his bike is always available.
Backus Hospital and the Mohegan Sun Casino use bicycle patrols for security purposes in parking lots and to assist visitors. Lowell Yeager, a retired fireman, bikes approximately 1,500 miles per year in addition to the time he spends on bike patrol at Backus Hospital.
These patrollers are dedicated to helping others and are passionate about staying fit.
Ballroom dancing attracts athletes and creative types
Athletic activities take on many different forms and among the more recently popular are various types of dance. Television shows like “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” have been major forces behind the growing numbers of dancers.
Dancing attracts men and women of all ages, fitness levels and cultural backgrounds. People dance socially, competitively or for the entertainment of others. Perhaps no other athletic activity is so universally accepted.
The physical demands of dancing vary greatly. The pace and rhythm of the dance will dictate the cardiovascular component. Caloric output can vary between 200 and 400 calories per hour depending on the pace of the dance.
Agility is important for dancing and participation -- even at a novice level -- will improve balance. As with all weight-bearing activities, muscles become stronger and bone density increases. Typical injuries include ankle sprains, knee injuries and a variety of strained muscles.
Ballroom dancing, which requires a partner, has become particularly popular.
Adult ballroom dancing camps are held around the world. A recent week-long camp at Mt. Snow, Vt., attracted 50 dancers from the United States and Canada. Ballroom Vermont owner Byron Siegal has seen a 40% increase in participation over the past five years and more than 50% are repeat customers.
“We both enjoy the physical as well as mental and social aspects of ballroom dancing,” said veteran campers Robert and Peggy Cassey. Peggi Morrow directs the camp and finds that campers fall into two broad categories: the analytical group where every movement demands careful study and the creative group who just start moving with reckless abandon.
Like any sport, success is based on timing, coordination and strength. Enjoyment is based purely on attitude.
Dancing attracts men and women of all ages, fitness levels and cultural backgrounds. People dance socially, competitively or for the entertainment of others. Perhaps no other athletic activity is so universally accepted.
The physical demands of dancing vary greatly. The pace and rhythm of the dance will dictate the cardiovascular component. Caloric output can vary between 200 and 400 calories per hour depending on the pace of the dance.
Agility is important for dancing and participation -- even at a novice level -- will improve balance. As with all weight-bearing activities, muscles become stronger and bone density increases. Typical injuries include ankle sprains, knee injuries and a variety of strained muscles.
Ballroom dancing, which requires a partner, has become particularly popular.
Adult ballroom dancing camps are held around the world. A recent week-long camp at Mt. Snow, Vt., attracted 50 dancers from the United States and Canada. Ballroom Vermont owner Byron Siegal has seen a 40% increase in participation over the past five years and more than 50% are repeat customers.
“We both enjoy the physical as well as mental and social aspects of ballroom dancing,” said veteran campers Robert and Peggy Cassey. Peggi Morrow directs the camp and finds that campers fall into two broad categories: the analytical group where every movement demands careful study and the creative group who just start moving with reckless abandon.
Like any sport, success is based on timing, coordination and strength. Enjoyment is based purely on attitude.
Athletes are at risk for sunburn
Sunburn, an often-ignored sports injury, can result in immediate as well as long term injury. If exposure becomes chronic, it can lead to death.
Skin is the largest organ in the human body. An intricate network of blood vessels, nerves and glands provides a system for thermoregulation. It is responsible for protecting internal organs from the environment, leaving the skin susceptible to damage from the elements.
The sun produces invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVA and UVB rays can produce damage after excessive exposure.
Athletes whose sports require long hours of outdoor training are particularly susceptible to the sun. This includes runners, cyclists and surfers. Winter athletes are at risk due to reflection of sun rays on snow and ice, and because they typically compete at higher altitudes.
Protection from the sun involves several strategies:
- Timing. Sun exposure is minimized when workouts are scheduled before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- Clothing. Dark, tightly woven attire will block rays while light colors only scatter rays and loose weaves allow the rays to pass through. Modern fabrics allow athletes to remain cool while covered.
- Sunscreen. Athletes should use sunscreens specifically formulated as sweat resistant and waterproof. They should also have a sun protective factor (SPF) of 30-50. A high SPF lip balm is also recommended.
“Athletes often do not reapply sunscreen despite profuse sweating. It must be re-applied at least every two hours to be effective,” said Dr. Howard Rogers, a dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology in Norwich and member of the Backus Hospital Medical Staff.
He also believes instructing people to increase sun exposure to avoid vitamin D deficiency is misleading and that dietary supplements are the most efficient way of addressing this problem without unnecessary cancer risk.
Remember, you can never apply sunscreen too much or too often.
Skin is the largest organ in the human body. An intricate network of blood vessels, nerves and glands provides a system for thermoregulation. It is responsible for protecting internal organs from the environment, leaving the skin susceptible to damage from the elements.
The sun produces invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVA and UVB rays can produce damage after excessive exposure.
Athletes whose sports require long hours of outdoor training are particularly susceptible to the sun. This includes runners, cyclists and surfers. Winter athletes are at risk due to reflection of sun rays on snow and ice, and because they typically compete at higher altitudes.
Protection from the sun involves several strategies:
- Timing. Sun exposure is minimized when workouts are scheduled before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- Clothing. Dark, tightly woven attire will block rays while light colors only scatter rays and loose weaves allow the rays to pass through. Modern fabrics allow athletes to remain cool while covered.
- Sunscreen. Athletes should use sunscreens specifically formulated as sweat resistant and waterproof. They should also have a sun protective factor (SPF) of 30-50. A high SPF lip balm is also recommended.
“Athletes often do not reapply sunscreen despite profuse sweating. It must be re-applied at least every two hours to be effective,” said Dr. Howard Rogers, a dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology in Norwich and member of the Backus Hospital Medical Staff.
He also believes instructing people to increase sun exposure to avoid vitamin D deficiency is misleading and that dietary supplements are the most efficient way of addressing this problem without unnecessary cancer risk.
Remember, you can never apply sunscreen too much or too often.
Athletes can improve performance with rest
Athletes are typically highly motivated and committed to their sports. Hard work as a means of improvement is a core value. Among the most difficult things a sports medicine physician must recommend to an athlete is rest.
An athlete’s response to a physician’s advice is not age-dependent. Older people often tragically ignore sound advice while younger athletes with a bright future may accept the verdict.
Inexperienced athletes perceive rest as a defeat and often ignore this recommendation. Their persistence to “work through the pain” often leads to a more severe, career-ending or life-altering injury.
More mature athletes understand that resting can be an opportunity to become better at their sport. They use the time to work on other aspects of their game and often emerge stronger and more competitive.
For example, a pitcher or golfer may realize after an injury that they can no longer rely on power and must add more finesse to their game.
Rest is an effective treatment for many injuries:
• Muscle strain. Rest allows muscle fibers that may have small tears to repair themselves and perform more efficiently.
• Sprains. These injuries involve ligaments that stabilize joints. Swelling and inflammation are a result of these injuries and rest gives the body an opportunity to resolve this response.
• Concussions. Any brain injury requires cognitive and physical rest so that brain cells can heal. Any activity should be stopped until it can be done without a headache.
Rest does not mean total separation from sports. Rehabilitation involves activity without the use of an injured limb or joint. Bracing can often allow for limited, painless activity. A recovery plan should include the advice of a certified athletic trainer or physical therapist.
One common feature to these injuries is pain and a good rule to follow is that if it hurts, rest is in order.
An athlete’s response to a physician’s advice is not age-dependent. Older people often tragically ignore sound advice while younger athletes with a bright future may accept the verdict.
Inexperienced athletes perceive rest as a defeat and often ignore this recommendation. Their persistence to “work through the pain” often leads to a more severe, career-ending or life-altering injury.
More mature athletes understand that resting can be an opportunity to become better at their sport. They use the time to work on other aspects of their game and often emerge stronger and more competitive.
For example, a pitcher or golfer may realize after an injury that they can no longer rely on power and must add more finesse to their game.
Rest is an effective treatment for many injuries:
• Muscle strain. Rest allows muscle fibers that may have small tears to repair themselves and perform more efficiently.
• Sprains. These injuries involve ligaments that stabilize joints. Swelling and inflammation are a result of these injuries and rest gives the body an opportunity to resolve this response.
• Concussions. Any brain injury requires cognitive and physical rest so that brain cells can heal. Any activity should be stopped until it can be done without a headache.
Rest does not mean total separation from sports. Rehabilitation involves activity without the use of an injured limb or joint. Bracing can often allow for limited, painless activity. A recovery plan should include the advice of a certified athletic trainer or physical therapist.
One common feature to these injuries is pain and a good rule to follow is that if it hurts, rest is in order.
Sports are good for autistic children
When a child is diagnosed with autism, parents are rightly concerned. Autism should not exclude anyone from participation in sports and in fact exercise and fitness should be encouraged as a form of therapy.
Autism is a group of developmental disorders now referred to as “autism spectrum disorders.” The range of symptoms varies greatly but the common element is difficulty communicating and interacting with others.
The causes of autism are highly controversial and diverse. Genetic causes along with environmental factors are currently being investigated. Complications during childbirth may also play a role.
Since the range of symptoms is so broad, no single treatment is effective for everyone. Medication has not been proven to play a major role. Most treatment plans include educational, creative and dietary therapies.
Sports play a role in treating autism by emphasizing coordination and body awareness. Dedication to improving a particular athletic skill will also increase confidence and support other therapies.
Team sports are generally not recommended because participation relies so heavily on communication with teammates. The best sports for children with autism include:
• Track and Field. Running and throwing are very basic activities that require little verbal skill.
• Swimming. The symmetry and the swim stroke improve body awareness. Propelling through the water is among the most soothing activities from the standpoint of sound and tactile sensation. A competitive element can be easily introduced if desired.
• Horseback Riding. This is perfect for children who may have associated motor deficits prohibiting them from other sports.
• Basketball. The repetitive act of shooting baskets is an activity with immediate gratification. Individual shooting games like “H-0-R-S-E” or “Around the World” provide fun competition.
• Martial Arts. An outstanding way to improve balance and coordination.
Most importantly, when choosing an athletic activity for a child with autism, make sure it’s fun.
Autism is a group of developmental disorders now referred to as “autism spectrum disorders.” The range of symptoms varies greatly but the common element is difficulty communicating and interacting with others.
The causes of autism are highly controversial and diverse. Genetic causes along with environmental factors are currently being investigated. Complications during childbirth may also play a role.
Since the range of symptoms is so broad, no single treatment is effective for everyone. Medication has not been proven to play a major role. Most treatment plans include educational, creative and dietary therapies.
Sports play a role in treating autism by emphasizing coordination and body awareness. Dedication to improving a particular athletic skill will also increase confidence and support other therapies.
Team sports are generally not recommended because participation relies so heavily on communication with teammates. The best sports for children with autism include:
• Track and Field. Running and throwing are very basic activities that require little verbal skill.
• Swimming. The symmetry and the swim stroke improve body awareness. Propelling through the water is among the most soothing activities from the standpoint of sound and tactile sensation. A competitive element can be easily introduced if desired.
• Horseback Riding. This is perfect for children who may have associated motor deficits prohibiting them from other sports.
• Basketball. The repetitive act of shooting baskets is an activity with immediate gratification. Individual shooting games like “H-0-R-S-E” or “Around the World” provide fun competition.
• Martial Arts. An outstanding way to improve balance and coordination.
Most importantly, when choosing an athletic activity for a child with autism, make sure it’s fun.
Socks are a key part of athletic attire
At one time, the only criteria for the purchase of athletic socks were that they be white and absorbent. A similar purchase today requires an advanced degree in materials management.
High quality athletic attire is often made from materials that have wicking and antimicrobial properties. Wicking materials are typically synthetics that lift moisture away from the skin. This creates a dry barrier between the body and garment. Names like “Dri-Lex” and “Dri-Fit” indicate that these wicking compounds are present.
Antimicrobial materials are designed to keep the article of clothing free of bacteria, fungi and mold. This reduces the chance for infecting any open wound. The use of silver-embedded fibers creates these antimicrobial capabilities.
Socks are among the articles of athletic attire that benefit most from these features. Constant friction between the foot and shoe will result in blisters. The combination of moisture and heat in a closed environment with an open wound will cause infection. Sharing unlaundered socks can cause spread of bacteria like MRSA.
“The key factors to choosing proper athletic socks are stitching and materials,” said Dr. Joseph Di Francesca, a Norwich podiatrist on the Backus Hospital Medical Staff.
The best socks are those that have no stitching since these serve as a source of irritation. He agrees that materials should be both wicking and antimicrobial. Di Francesca recommends socks made from merino wool since they have natural wicking properties and silver-based fibers that reduce infection and odor.
While these developments are the result of efforts to create a better athletic sock, the cross-over to non-athletic activities is easily understood. Many people who spend long hours on their feet, as well as those who suffer from chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease, have also benefitted greatly.
While the purchase of athletic socks should not become a major life decision, there is more to it than just color.
High quality athletic attire is often made from materials that have wicking and antimicrobial properties. Wicking materials are typically synthetics that lift moisture away from the skin. This creates a dry barrier between the body and garment. Names like “Dri-Lex” and “Dri-Fit” indicate that these wicking compounds are present.
Antimicrobial materials are designed to keep the article of clothing free of bacteria, fungi and mold. This reduces the chance for infecting any open wound. The use of silver-embedded fibers creates these antimicrobial capabilities.
Socks are among the articles of athletic attire that benefit most from these features. Constant friction between the foot and shoe will result in blisters. The combination of moisture and heat in a closed environment with an open wound will cause infection. Sharing unlaundered socks can cause spread of bacteria like MRSA.
“The key factors to choosing proper athletic socks are stitching and materials,” said Dr. Joseph Di Francesca, a Norwich podiatrist on the Backus Hospital Medical Staff.
The best socks are those that have no stitching since these serve as a source of irritation. He agrees that materials should be both wicking and antimicrobial. Di Francesca recommends socks made from merino wool since they have natural wicking properties and silver-based fibers that reduce infection and odor.
While these developments are the result of efforts to create a better athletic sock, the cross-over to non-athletic activities is easily understood. Many people who spend long hours on their feet, as well as those who suffer from chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease, have also benefitted greatly.
While the purchase of athletic socks should not become a major life decision, there is more to it than just color.
Blind golf challenges and inspires
Sports fans love an underdog. The ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds has been a source of admiration since David took on Goliath.
After watching professional golfers at the US Open and Traveler’s Championship, some would say just playing the game of golf is sufficiently challenging. Most impressive is when the game is played by athletes who are legally blind.
Blind golf traces its roots in the United States to 1925 when Clint Russell began playing after losing his sight in an accident. The United States Blind Golf Association was established in 1947 and has since been sponsoring organized tournaments.
Interestingly, there is little variation from the traditional rules of golf. Blind golfers work with a coach who is responsible for aligning the club and giving information on distance and direction. The only other significant variation is the ability to ground the club in a hazard before making a shot.
A blind golfer’s coach is more than a caddy as their relationship involves a high level of trust.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind sponsors the Corcoran Cup Masters Invitational golf tournament at the Mt. Kisco Country Club in New York. The field consists of the top 16 blind golfers in the country.
“Sponsoring this tournament over the past 30 years has become a fundamental part of our mission to allow blind and visually impaired people to compete on an equal playing field,” said Michelle Brier, marketing manager at Guiding Eyes. The day following the tournament, blind golfers play in foursomes with sighted golfers as part of a fundraising event.
Golf requires athletic ability and skill. One of the fringe benefits for all golfers is the camaraderie of sharing the experience with others.
Although golf has a significant “visual” component, success is measured by the “sound” of the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.
After watching professional golfers at the US Open and Traveler’s Championship, some would say just playing the game of golf is sufficiently challenging. Most impressive is when the game is played by athletes who are legally blind.
Blind golf traces its roots in the United States to 1925 when Clint Russell began playing after losing his sight in an accident. The United States Blind Golf Association was established in 1947 and has since been sponsoring organized tournaments.
Interestingly, there is little variation from the traditional rules of golf. Blind golfers work with a coach who is responsible for aligning the club and giving information on distance and direction. The only other significant variation is the ability to ground the club in a hazard before making a shot.
A blind golfer’s coach is more than a caddy as their relationship involves a high level of trust.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind sponsors the Corcoran Cup Masters Invitational golf tournament at the Mt. Kisco Country Club in New York. The field consists of the top 16 blind golfers in the country.
“Sponsoring this tournament over the past 30 years has become a fundamental part of our mission to allow blind and visually impaired people to compete on an equal playing field,” said Michelle Brier, marketing manager at Guiding Eyes. The day following the tournament, blind golfers play in foursomes with sighted golfers as part of a fundraising event.
Golf requires athletic ability and skill. One of the fringe benefits for all golfers is the camaraderie of sharing the experience with others.
Although golf has a significant “visual” component, success is measured by the “sound” of the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.
Readers weigh in with innovative employee wellness programs
Two weeks ago there was a discussion of wellness programs implemented by employers. These programs have been proven to reduce health care expenses and absenteeism while improving morale. Since publishing that column, several employers have presented some innovative ways they have approached employee health and wellness.
American Ambulance of Norwich held a fitness challenge for employees where three teams of 13 were awarded points for making healthy lifestyle choices.
“This challenge was not about weight loss but was instead designed to promote healthy habits for staff and their families,” said Janet Welch, director of human resources. Some choices included tai chi classes and family ski trips.
Bruce Bumpus is a director of Web Industries Hartford and reports that they have a program titled “Step up to the Plate.” It is designed around a baseball format extending over nine weeks/innings. Teams score runs based on their cardiovascular workouts. They have been able to attain 91% employee participation.
Carl Mailhot posted a comment on this blog. His company, Eastern Connecticut Rehabilitation Center, has partnered with employers to design wellness and fitness programs. Their programs include pre-shift stretching, wellness education and worksite-safety. They also provide a physical therapist for consultation regarding ergonomic issues.
If your company has an innovative approach to wellness, send it along to aalessi@wwbh.org.
Another update: this week Governor M. Jodi Rell signed into law a bill requiring that an automatic external defibrillator be available at all scholastic sports activities.
This law is the result of the efforts of Lawrence and Evelyn Pontbriant in memory of their son, Larry. By joining forces with the Connecticut Athletic Trainers Association, they have been able to enact legislation that will save young lives. All parents owe them a debt of gratitude for their perseverance.
American Ambulance of Norwich held a fitness challenge for employees where three teams of 13 were awarded points for making healthy lifestyle choices.
“This challenge was not about weight loss but was instead designed to promote healthy habits for staff and their families,” said Janet Welch, director of human resources. Some choices included tai chi classes and family ski trips.
Bruce Bumpus is a director of Web Industries Hartford and reports that they have a program titled “Step up to the Plate.” It is designed around a baseball format extending over nine weeks/innings. Teams score runs based on their cardiovascular workouts. They have been able to attain 91% employee participation.
Carl Mailhot posted a comment on this blog. His company, Eastern Connecticut Rehabilitation Center, has partnered with employers to design wellness and fitness programs. Their programs include pre-shift stretching, wellness education and worksite-safety. They also provide a physical therapist for consultation regarding ergonomic issues.
If your company has an innovative approach to wellness, send it along to aalessi@wwbh.org.
Another update: this week Governor M. Jodi Rell signed into law a bill requiring that an automatic external defibrillator be available at all scholastic sports activities.
This law is the result of the efforts of Lawrence and Evelyn Pontbriant in memory of their son, Larry. By joining forces with the Connecticut Athletic Trainers Association, they have been able to enact legislation that will save young lives. All parents owe them a debt of gratitude for their perseverance.
Employee fitness contributes to overall wellness
Controversy erupted in Hartford last week when gym equipment for employees to exercise was installed in a lunchroom. This step toward improving the health and fitness of city employees sparked outrage among several city council members.
Many companies and municipalities have been instituting health and wellness programs in an effort to control skyrocketing health costs. Results have shown that any investment in fitness yields benefits including decreased absenteeism, reduced medical costs and better morale.
In challenging economic times, wellness and other forms of preventive care should be viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Several local employers, both large and small, provide a variety of opportunities aimed at keeping their work force healthy. Programs include smoking cessation and stress management, along with onsite fitness centers and discounted gym memberships.
The Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics provides multiple programs for employees.
“Maintaining and staffing an onsite fitness center is only part of our comprehensive health and wellness strategy,” said Alvin Ayers, Director of Health, Wellness and Disability Benefits.
Since 1985, EB has had a fully equipped fitness center open 24/7 and staffed by fitness specialists. Approximately 700 employees regularly utilize the facility that includes cardio and resistance equipment. Other programs include yoga, aerobics and nutrition. EB’s proactive commitment to health has paid off in morale and fitness of the workforce according to Ayers.
Dime Savings Bank provides a fitness facility at its main branch in Norwich but faces the challenge of involving employees at other branches in wellness programs.
“Dime provides discounted local gym memberships for all employees, as well as sponsoring competitive fitness challenges among the various branches,” reports Cheryl Calderado, Senior Vice President for Administration at Dime.
Frequently used fitness equipment is always a good investment, especially in tough economic times. If your company has a fitness center or unique approach to wellness, contact me at aalessi@wwbh.org.
Many companies and municipalities have been instituting health and wellness programs in an effort to control skyrocketing health costs. Results have shown that any investment in fitness yields benefits including decreased absenteeism, reduced medical costs and better morale.
In challenging economic times, wellness and other forms of preventive care should be viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Several local employers, both large and small, provide a variety of opportunities aimed at keeping their work force healthy. Programs include smoking cessation and stress management, along with onsite fitness centers and discounted gym memberships.
The Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics provides multiple programs for employees.
“Maintaining and staffing an onsite fitness center is only part of our comprehensive health and wellness strategy,” said Alvin Ayers, Director of Health, Wellness and Disability Benefits.
Since 1985, EB has had a fully equipped fitness center open 24/7 and staffed by fitness specialists. Approximately 700 employees regularly utilize the facility that includes cardio and resistance equipment. Other programs include yoga, aerobics and nutrition. EB’s proactive commitment to health has paid off in morale and fitness of the workforce according to Ayers.
Dime Savings Bank provides a fitness facility at its main branch in Norwich but faces the challenge of involving employees at other branches in wellness programs.
“Dime provides discounted local gym memberships for all employees, as well as sponsoring competitive fitness challenges among the various branches,” reports Cheryl Calderado, Senior Vice President for Administration at Dime.
Frequently used fitness equipment is always a good investment, especially in tough economic times. If your company has a fitness center or unique approach to wellness, contact me at aalessi@wwbh.org.
Haitian Soccer Success
Four years ago the Haitian Health Foundation embarked upon a bold effort using participation in a girl’s soccer program as a reward for completing a course in responsible sexuality. The result has been a movement and the establishment of the first organized women’s soccer league in Haiti.
After first reporting this story in a Healthy Sports feature last year, many local citizens and institutions have provided assistance in the form of monetary donations and equipment. Thanks to this support, the program has spread to more remote areas of Haiti and nearly 1,700 girls are enrolled in this year’s course. When taking into consideration past graduates, there will be a total of 52 teams of girls ages 13-19 playing this summer.
What these athletes lack in equipment they make up for in desire and effort. In many villages it has become a source of parental pride to have a daughter play for a team. Empowerment and confidence are two of the attributes that are readily apparent when chatting with players.
Although this program has developed a healthy outlet for these women in regard to personal fitness, the question of whether or not it has resulted in healthier sexual practices remains. Studies comparing the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy before the program and since are ongoing. Initial reports, although anecdotal, indicate both these parameters are declining since the program started.
Dr. Jeremiah Lowney is founder and president of the Norwich-based Haitian Health Foundation. “Athletic participation is always a positive distraction for young people. The girl’s soccer league in rural Haiti will result in a healthier population of future mothers. They also receive health information to pass onto their daughters. This program will span generations,” said Lowney.
If you wish to find out more about the HHF soccer program or make a financial or equipment donation, the blog is www.hhfsoccer.wordpress.com and the website is www.haitianhealthfoundation.org.
After first reporting this story in a Healthy Sports feature last year, many local citizens and institutions have provided assistance in the form of monetary donations and equipment. Thanks to this support, the program has spread to more remote areas of Haiti and nearly 1,700 girls are enrolled in this year’s course. When taking into consideration past graduates, there will be a total of 52 teams of girls ages 13-19 playing this summer.
What these athletes lack in equipment they make up for in desire and effort. In many villages it has become a source of parental pride to have a daughter play for a team. Empowerment and confidence are two of the attributes that are readily apparent when chatting with players.
Although this program has developed a healthy outlet for these women in regard to personal fitness, the question of whether or not it has resulted in healthier sexual practices remains. Studies comparing the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy before the program and since are ongoing. Initial reports, although anecdotal, indicate both these parameters are declining since the program started.
Dr. Jeremiah Lowney is founder and president of the Norwich-based Haitian Health Foundation. “Athletic participation is always a positive distraction for young people. The girl’s soccer league in rural Haiti will result in a healthier population of future mothers. They also receive health information to pass onto their daughters. This program will span generations,” said Lowney.
If you wish to find out more about the HHF soccer program or make a financial or equipment donation, the blog is www.hhfsoccer.wordpress.com and the website is www.haitianhealthfoundation.org.
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