Find out how exercise changes lives this Exercise Right Week
20 May 2021
The countdown is on for
Exercise Right Week 2021 – running from Monday, 24 May to Sunday, 30 May – as Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) strives to keep Australians of all ages active and healthy whilst guided by ESSA accredited exercise professionals.
“Each year in the final week of May, Exercise Right Week aims to remind Australians about the benefits of exercise and physical activity, and the importance of seeking out the right professional for individualised advice,” says ESSA CEO, Anita Hobson-Powell.
This year’s theme is
‘Exercise Changes Lives’ and the key message is to use the power of exercise to take charge of your health, take charge of your well-being, and take charge of your life.
In line with this theme, Exercise Right Week 2021 will feature the stories of five different Australians who have had exercise change their lives for the better. These stories vary across different age groups, injuries, and health conditions, and showcases that movement is certainly for everyone.
One story is that of Matt, a single, below-the-knee amputee who lost his leg to a workplace injury five years ago. Jess is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist who has been working with
Matt who says that exercise has absolutely changed his life.
“Seeing an exercise physiologist has helped me massively, mentally and physically. Some days I come in here [to the clinic] not feeling too good, but I walk out with a smile. I love it, I’d recommend it to anybody,” says Matt.
Another story is that of 10-year-old
Demi who was born with fibular hemimelia (where part or all of the fibular bone is missing) in her right leg. Before seeing an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Demi was in a wheelchair learning to walk again, but nine months later, all her hard work has paid off as she walks and runs around.
“This [exercise physiology] has made a world of difference to Demi’s world. From go to now, she’s just totally turned the corner,” shared Demi’s dad, Simon.
Matt and
Demi’s stories, as well as the stories of
James,
Isaac, and
Jenny, are all truly inspirational and highlights just how expertly prescribed exercise, adapted to suit your abilities, has the power to change your life. Keep an eye out on our
Instagram and
Facebook during Exercise Right Week for the launch of these videos.
An important aspect of Exercise Right Week is to remind Australians that the mental and physical benefits of movement cannot be ignored. Exercise helps to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers, can help manage disabilities, and can protect against mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
“If you could squeeze all the health benefits of exercise into a pill, it’d be the most prescribed drug in the country,” adds Anita.
Throughout next week to celebrate Exercise Right Week, there will plenty of chances to win prizes, as well as
free events across the country which includes exercise screening assessments and health consults, in-person and virtual group classes, as well as educational Q&A sessions hosted by the exercise experts.
“Whether you’re an everyday Australian or a health professional, we really encourage everyone to get involved in Exercise Right Week. Whether it be sharing one of our video stories, attending one of the free events, or just sharing the message that exercise changes lives, you’re helping to encourage a more active and healthy community.”
To learn more about the campaign, visit the
Exercise Right website.