The programme, funded by the HSE, is being led by WSP in partnership with Waterford Institute of Technology who are evaluating the programme’s impact. Waterford is one
of eight counties taking part in this research with, 720 men participating in the research programme nationwide.
The programme kicked off in the first week of September with three information evenings in Waterford City, Lismore and Dungarvan attended by 200 men. GP’s Mark Rowe and Barry Lordan gave insightful talks into the benefits of exercise for men’s health. Health measurements including height, weight, BMI, waist circumference and
a timed one mile challenge were recorded on the evenings with the assistance of our designated team of six ‘Men on the Move tutors’, volunteers Samantha Barr and Billy Grace and staff from WSP and WIT. These measurements will be retaken at week twelve to measure the effects of the programme.
The 140 participants across the three venues are currently enjoying the twice weekly one hour physical activity sessions where they focus on aerobic exercises for forty minutes, using step counters, and work on core strength and flexibility for twenty minutes. Course participant Tony Walsh said ‘Very enjoyable night, nice slow start that built up to a very good finish, really looking forward to the next night.’
Men on the Move tutor Barry O’Connor said ‘with obesity and mental health issues prominent in Ireland, the Men on the Move programme is a wonderful opportunity for men to get active in a safe, fun and friendly way. The programme offers the men the chance to learn and take part in safe, effective exercises which are designed to suit everyone’s needs. They should see both physical and psychological benefits such as improved mood, increased energy, weight loss/control and improved mobility and greater functional fitness.’ Lismore and Dungarvan tutor Daniel Ryan said ‘In the short time the programme has been running, we are having great success with men of all ages in getting active and socialising. It’s great fun to be working with these guys.’Whilst this programme focuses on physical activity, it is also important to recognise the potential benefits to social and mental well being.
We are delighted that many of the men are now walking in their own time outside of the two weekly sessions. In the coming weeks the participants will also attend healthy eating and wellness sessions delivered by the HSE as part of the programme.
Paula Carroll, coordinator of the Men on the Move project from WIT said “It is evident from the number of men taking part in the Men on the Move programme in Waterford and elsewhere, that men are really interested in improving their health and they are willing to engage with services once the approach is right for them. The Men on the Move programme is a fantastic opportunity for men to become more active in a fun and sociable environment in their own communities. There is considerable evidence to show that men who participate in programmes such as Men on the Move, can reap benefits such as improved fitness levels, weight loss, an increase in self-confidence and mental wellbeing as well as feeling more connected and integrated with their communities.
It is probable that their families and communities also benefit vicariously. It is really wonderful to see so many men in Waterford availing of this opportunity. And all it’s costing them is their time”
WSP are delighted by the number of men who have signed up for the programme and how well the programme is running to date.
If you are interested in the programme or want further information, please contact Peter Jones on 058 21191 or pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie.
