Attention all BMCC Students and Faculty! Are you interested in improving or maintaining your fitness and health? According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the percentage of adults in the U.S. ages 20 and over with obesity is above 40%. The Health Education Department and the Division of Student Affairs is here to help with our Couch to 5k! This event takes place during the Fall/Spring Semesters and focuses on encouraging participants to increase their activity. In addition, we discuss other weight management strategies such as proper nutrition and sleep.
“I enjoyed being involved in the Couch to 5k this semester (Fall 2022). It brought me joy to see so many students participating in being more active. The best part of this experience was meeting up with students and Professors to complete the race together.” Junell Trim
Originally, the event was a just a 5k where participants would walk or run in-person near the college. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the event transformed into a virtual 5k. Participants now download and register for an app that tracks their distance through GPS. Two concerns emerged during the pandemic, are participants fit enough to complete a 5k and what about consistency and accountability? The need for progression was apparent and from this, the BMCC Couch to 5k was created. Currently, the event has over 100 participants each semester completing two lead-up walk/runs (1k and 3k), as well as at-home virtual workouts. In addition, the event is becoming more social, and students are having more support with the use of WhatsApp to increase motivation and assist participants to exercise in small groups.
“Being a part of the Couch to 5K walk/run was a fun experience. It was nice to see everyone really engaged and getting active!” Aminat Fakunle
So, what does the future hold for an event that has been a BMCC Health Education and Division of Student Affairs tradition for decades? I believe a focus on keeping participants active and health conscious for an entire semester rather than one day is the key to success. Motivating individuals to take charge of their health through virtual and in-person workouts, communication, and education. By implementing a hybrid format for workouts, we can reach more participants and increase individual results. As the campus reopens, runners & walkers can enjoy again the views of the river along the path adjacent to our beloved BMCC. The ultimate goal for this event is that students will internalize the fitness mindset, and therefore lead a healthier, more active life far after leaving BMCC.
