Improving Women’s Health Through Bulldogs Active Program
Researchers from Western Sydney University (WSU) used a $10,000 Canterbury donation to run Bulldogs Active, a program to encourage positive behavioural changes to exercise and healthy eating amongst its female participants.
“The 12-week women’s health program was delivered in partnership with Canterbury League Club and C-Life Health Club by providing an opportunity for women from the Canterbury-Bankstown region to learn about healthy lifestyle behaviours to enhance their physical and mental health,” said Emma George, Associate Professor of Western Sydney University.
The Bulldogs Active program was based on WSU’s successful men’s program, Active Breed, which ran a few years prior and follows a similar format, however targeting female participants on this occasion.
Each week participants attended a 90-minute session, led by health experts and Bulldogs Active coaches. Topics discussed each week included improving mental health, healthy eating, positive psychology, and concluded with exercise time at C-Life.
Obesity and chronic disease rates amongst women in Australia are growing along with the percentage of women not meeting the physical activity guidelines. As a result, the Australian Government’s National Women’s Health Strategy 2020-2030 has highlighted the need for commitment to improving women’s health, particularly through the development of interventions designed to target physical, emotional, and psychological health.
“Participants really enjoyed the breadth of content covered in the education sessions and loved having access to C-Life for their weekly physical activity sessions,” said Emma. “They have made positive changes to their physical activity and dietary habits and have gained important knowledge about dealing with stress and supporting their mental health.”
“It’s great to see this program aiming to promote small and sustainable lifestyle changes – there is no doubt of the many benefits that regular exercise and healthy habits have on the mind and body.” said Peter Winchester, Chairman of Canterbury League Club.
