BOONE—May has been designated “Exercise is Medicine Month” in Boone. The designation is part of the American College of Sports Medicine’s national program “Exercise is Medicine Month.”

Boone Mayor Loretta Clawson signed the proclamation in consolation with Dr. Chuck Dumke, an associate professor in Appalachian State University’s Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise; Susan Tumbleston, program manager for the Be Active-Appalachian Partnership; and Jodi Cash with the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Wellness Center.

Susan Tumbleston, left, from the Be Active-Appalachian Partnership, Boone Mayor Loretta Clawson, Dr. Chuck Dumke from Appalachian State University’s Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise Science, and Jodi Cash from the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Wellness Center, witness the signing of a proclamation declaring May as “Exercise is Medicine” month in Boone. (Photo submitted)

The program encourages citizens to engage in physical activity for the health benefits it brings, and physicians to “prescribe” exercise to their patients. Able patients are advised to participate in at least 30 minutes of physical activity and 10 minutes of stretching and light muscle training five days a week.

N.C. Gov. Mike Easley also has been requested to designate May as “Exercise is Medicine Month” for the state.

“As a member of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the professional health and fitness community, I’m committed to encouraging physical activity for the health benefits it brings all people,” Dumke wrote in a letter to Easley.

Dumke says exercise and physical activity can help prevent or treat numerous chronic conditions such as hypertension, cardiac disease and diabetes. In addition research shows significant health benefits for those who engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week.

Despite the documented benefits of exercise, a recent ACSM survey indicated that while four out of 10 physicians (41 percent) talk to their patients about the importance of exercise, they don’t always offer suggestions on the best ways to be physically active. However, nearly two-thirds of the patients surveyed indicated they would be more interested in exercising to stay healthy if advised by their doctor and given additional resources.

The health educators urge physicians to talk with their patients about the benefits of exercise and, if appropriate, refer them to a health fitness professional. Patient should ask questions about their health status the next time they visit their doctor. Parents should give their children the gift of lifelong wellness by being a role model and supporting them in establishing a habit of lifelong physical activity.

To learn more about “Exercise is Medicine Month,” visit www.exerciseismedicine.org.

For more information about the Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise Science at Appalachian, visit www.hles.appstate.edu. For information about Be Active-Appalachian Partnership, e-mail beactive@appstate.edu.

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