What Is A Green Prescription?

It is an activity programme designed to kick-start your physical activity levels.  There is one initial face-to-face consultation followed by three montly support calls.

Who Can Be On A Green Prescription?

It is aimed at anyone who would benefit from becoming more physically active and is not currently meeting the 'healthy lifestyle' recommendation of two and half hours of moderate physical activity a week.  The person has to have a stable medical condition and be over 18 years of age.  Most importantly they need to be ready to make a lifestyle change.

Activity Sessions

Summer is upon us, so if you want to increase your fitness, improve your health and well-being, or make another exercise goal, we are here to help you. To start off 2012, we have two programmes starting in February.

The first programme is our ever popular Summer Walks Series. This year our meeting point will be at the St Kilda Surf Life Saving Club. The walks cater for all walking abilities, are free of charge and are open to family and friends.

The second activity is Nordic Walking. This is walking using poles.  Over the four week course you will learn correct techniques, as well as the numerous health benefits that Nordic walking can provide.  This is open to all people currently on the Green Prescription programme who can attend all four sessions.

Places for the Nordic walking class are limited and registrations close: Wednesday 1 February.

Your Name

 

Phone Number

 

Cell Phone Number

 

E-Mail Address

 

What Session(s) Would You Like To Attend?

Nordic Walking (open to current GRx clients who can attend all four sessions.)
Summer Walks Series (open to all)

 

Please Type These Characters (note: this is case sensitive)   

 

 

If you are not a current GRx client but would like more information about getting more active contact our GRx Coordinators on 03 474 6350 and they will be happy to give you suitable advice.

Green Prescription Success Stories

Click here to read about how Green Prescription has benefited people just like you.

Why Physical Activity?

The Green Prescription programme is all about managing health through physical activity.  Here are ten good reasons for leading a physically active lifestyle, which does not need to include formal or competitive activities, but may be focused on recreational options.

1. Gives you energy and confidence.

2. Reduces the effects of aging.

3. Reduces stress levels.

4. Stimulates the mind.

5. Helps you to sleep better and feel less tense.

6. Provides you with the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.

7. Increases mobility, balance, flexibility, bone and muscle strength.  Helps to reduce and control weight, blood pressure and cholesterol.

8. Lowers the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, stroke, osteoporosis and some types of cancer.

9. Improves posture, balance and reaction time, reducing the likelihood of falls, fractures and injuries.

10. Helps maintain mobility and independence.

Exercise And Medical Conditions

Independent research has shown that exercise can have a positive effect on a number of common medical conditions ranging from asthma to depression.  These are just some of the medical conditions that can be improved through regular physical exercise:

Arthritis

• Can increase mobility and reduce joint pain.
• Can prevent joint deformities.
• Can help control joint swelling and pain.

Asthma

• Can help you cope better with asthma and improve asthma symptoms.

Diabetes

• Significantly reduces risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Lowers blood glucose.
• Helps reduce weight when combined with healthy eating.
• Improves the effects of insulin.

Heart Disease

• Improves many risk factors.
• Reduces the risk of sudden cardiac events.

High Blood Pressure

• Helps lower blood pressure, particularly in middle aged people.

Obesity

• Burns energy and preserves lean muscle mass.
• Is important for losing weight and controlling weight.
• Most effective when combined with a healthy diet.

Osteoperosis

• Will help keep your bones strong.
• Helps improve posture and muscle strength.

Stress, Depression and Anxiety

• Improves mood.
• Helps relieve depression and stress.
• Increases feelings of wellbeing.