Heart class heads to Broome
Members of the Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service’s Heart Health Program have demonstrated that a little imagination can go a long way; it might even take you to Broome.
As part of the program, participants come in each Thursday morning and take part in an exercise bike riding session.
To add a bit of flavor to the sessions, the group sat down and set themselves the goal of riding 2300km, the equivalent of riding to Broome via Exmouth and a few other stops.
According to the program’s Cardiac Nurse Ted Dowling, the group simulated what would happen on the ride via a fictional newsletter.
“The newsletter was a heap of fun. The guys really showed their creativity. Some days we would ride along the coast and other days we would come up against some pretty funny problems, like flat tires and tourists,” he said.
“By simulating the trip, we made the class very social and fun. I think the fact that we were not only able to retain members of our group but entice more, shows that it was successful.
“Obviously doing it on exercise bikes is probably not as exciting as the real thing but it allows participants to have a chat to each other. They can also ride their bikes and listen into the health education presentations that we have.”
Participants also experienced health benefits with a number reporting improvements in blood sugar and weight loss. Some of the group have now also taken up walking.
To find out more about the Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service’s Heart Health Program visit www.derbarlyerrigan.com.au or phone 9421 3888.
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