OSU employee stays motivated to maintain active lifestyle

Friday, May 1, 2015

Jorge Atiles believes that finding motivation is the driving force behind a successful wellness lifestyle.

Atiles, Associate Dean for Extension and Engagement in the College of Human Sciences, said he finds most of his motivation from other people when he attends classes at the Seretean Wellness Center.

“When I go to a class, I’m there,” Atiles said. “I’m energized by seeing what others are doing.”

Unlike many workout enthusiasts, Atiles said he doesn’t stick to the same routine every day. Instead, he attends whatever fitness class he is available for during lunch or after work. 

His motivation also comes from wanting to remain healthy as he gets older.

“I’m going to be 52 this year, so one of the things that keeps me motivated is good health,” he said. “And I like to look good. That keeps me motivated.”

Atiles said he believes finding motivation is the hardest part for those looking to develop a lifestyle that incorporates wellness.

“People can make time for anything, but they need to be motivated,” he said. “It’s a matter of choices. I think people need to put their health first. If you don’t take care of yourself, you cannot take care of your job and you cannot take care of other people. In the end, you’re not going to be the best you can be.”

Aside from fitness classes, Atiles finds fun ways to stay active.  He and his wife Julia love to take long walks around town and Boomer Lake. He bikes often and every year plays on an intramural volleyball team at OSU.

“I’m probably the oldest person on that team, but I play with them and it’s great,” Atiles said.

Although Atiles has experience with remaining consistent in his healthy lifestyle, he does recognize the challenges. He said having friends to hold him accountable and motivate him is key.

“Wellness is a state of being, and for that, you have to work on it,” he said. “It’s good to have a partner to work with. I have become good friends with the people I exercise with.”

Before Atiles was committed to an active lifestyle, he said his previous job brought about a lot of stress and commitments, so he was not feeling great. However, as soon as he took on an active lifestyle and better eating habits, he was able to manage everything.

Once he came to OSU in 2010, Atiles said he wanted to ensure he could continue his active lifestyle.

“I went to the wellness center because I was told I was going to find what I needed there,” he said. “I signed up for all of those classes, and it has been phenomenal. That’s one of the things I love about this university – it values wellness.”

Now, Atiles is part of the America’s Healthiest Campus Committee, and he works closely with Chief Wellness Officer Suzy Harrington to prioritize a wellness-focused campus.

“I think being part of America’s Healthiest Campus reminds you that you’re part of a bigger thing that helps not only the campus, but helps you,” Atiles said. “Part of the culture here is that it is OK to take the time and go to the gym. In other places, you might be frowned upon because you’re leaving to go exercise during lunch. Even if you just have 15 minutes during lunchtime to go and do the walking trail, you can do that here. People want you to be well.”