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The Daily Tar Heel
On The Wire

Schools look for ways to encourage students to stay fit

UNC-Greensboro wants to be the biggest loser — of pounds that is.

The university’s Student Body President Katherine Marshall said student government is pushing for mandatory fitness classes.

“One concern for our campus, as well as our country, is that of the health and wellness of our people,” Marshall said.

The plan is still in the works.

UNC-G was named one of the fattest campuses in Men’s Health Magazine, encouraging students to come up with ways to combat the problem.

“We are constantly looking to improve our standard of physical being through finding the healthiest foods, the best means of exercise and fitness, as well as educational means to provide students with knowledge of how to remain healthy and happy,” Marshall said.

Concern for the well being of college students is widespread around the nation.

At the University of Vermont, they have developed a program called VTrim. The program consists of an online course where students learn about nutrition, eating habits and exercise.

Students are expected to weigh themselves every week and report the reading in an online journal.

They must also meet exercise goals that increase in intensity throughout the semester and keep a close record of what they eat and when, said

Lora Phillips, who has been implementing VTrim.

Students get weekly feedback based on the information they have entered on the online journal.

“When a person is committed to the program it’s a complete success — 20 to 25 pounds over a six- month period,” Phillips said.

At UNC-CH fitness classes have already been implemented. Students must participate in two hours of physical activity per week and are evaluated on their knowledge of health, nutrition and well being through online quizzes.

“I don’t think it is the best way to raise health awareness because most of what we learn is common knowledge,” said Max Harlacher, a freshman student who is currently enrolled in indoor sports. “I think it should be optional.”

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