Cowboys on the Move moves employees to reach exercise goals
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The program was launched on February 5, 2009 and now has a total of 879 participants. Participants use the program to track minutes of physical activity using the Cowboys on the Move Web site.
The site provides information on starting workout programs, staying motivated, nutrition and a Physical Activity Calendar with local training activities. Participants also receive weekly e-mail updates with different health tips.
Director of the Seretean Wellness Center, Robin Purdie, said the program is meant to encourage.
“The goal is to give employees encouragement and added incentive to increase physical activity,” Purdie said. “We know that Oklahomans need more exercise and this is a way to encourage them.”
Cowboys on the Move also offers a free walking club. The group meets twice a week at Chi-O clock for a 30-minute walk around campus. Leaders for walks include Burns and Ann Hargis, Anne Matoy, Terry Baker, Pam Ehlers, Pam Fry, Marlene Strathe, Laurie Bees, Lee Bird and other OSU administrators. The club meets Mondays at 12:05 and Wednesdays at 5:30.
The Seretean Wellness Center has additional services to help members with physical activity goals. The O-Zone Fitness Center includes weights, cardio machines and group exercise classes. Personal training is also available to help implement a personal workout program. Members can join for $21.75 a month.
Incentives are provided to members for various levels of physical activity. Rewards include a free moisture management shirt when an account is created, an OSU workout bag when members reach 900 minutes and a clear paperweight with the Cowboys on the Move logo when 1800 minutes is reached by a member.
Purdie said once the goal of one million minutes is reached, they will look at other initiatives to build on the concept.
“We may try some competitions with other universities,” Purdie said.
For more information contact, Kendria Cost at (405)744-WELL or e-mail at kendria.cost@okstate.edu.