A Program That Only Gets Easier With Time.
This new set of six classes is required for all incoming freshmen, to last through Junior or Senior year, has the goal of ongoing education on realistic eating and exercising for adulthood. This program would be in addition to electives, and would carry more weight in credits, as it will teach the science behind the activities and foods in addition to the actual activities. Every fall, the student will have several food education classes to choose from, each of them involving actual cooking activities so that it is not just theoretical nutrition. Students need to know that there are practical and healthy ways to prepare food quickly. In the Spring, several exercise classes will be offered, and will have a holistic approach, meaning the class won’t just be a dance class, or weight-lifting class. Students need to know there are a variety of options in the real world.
Too many of us graduate without these basic skills. As liberal arts colleges seek to provide a sustaining full circle of education, why wouldn’t our health be a primary concern in this circle? Learning how to cook a meal and de-stress from a hard day is just as important as earning any degree. If we aren’t healthy, we are less likely to be happy and fulfilled, regardless of how much we love our adult jobs. Needless to say, we have to address the fact that sedentary living is killing Americans at a higher rate than at any time before. Even just a little weight loss for someone overweight can mean the difference between healthy or sick.
This relates to our class on multiple levels. We have formed a theory, that college students need to learn how to eat and exercise in more effective ways to be happier. The need is great. We are the most unhealthy generation in almost a century. Some experts predict that our parents may actually outlive us. Finally, the approach is firm and direct. These classes are not avoidable, and can be adjusted according to a student’s physical abilities. Besides that, the classes will be fun, will be a great way to meet new people, and to learn about healthy living together.
