Programme:
Haere Hikoi Haere: Come and Walk
Sponsor:
Regional Public Health
Contact:
Judy Wood
Regional Public Health, Hutt Valley Health
Private Bag 31907
Hutt Valley, New Zealand
Phone (64) (4) 570-9002
Fax (64) (4) 570-9211
email: judy.wood@hvh.co.nz
Objective
To increase regular physical activity in local Maori communities
(indigenous people) through a community walking project.
Assessment of Need
Of New Zealanders, 36% are inactive, i.e., undertake less than 2.5
hours of physical activity a week. However, 41.8% of Maori are considered
inactive. Inactivity is a significant risk factor for poor health e.g.,
obesity, coronary heart disease and diabetes. Moderate activity is known
to benefit health and 30 minutes most days is recommended.
Strategy
Walking is the most popular form of exercise and is achievable,
affordable and accessible. After consultation with local Maori,
Regional Public Health employed a Maori community worker to implement
a community walking project. Team leaders were identified from the
community, with teams of up to ten participants. Three walking projects
took place over two years, with a total of 200 participants. Kilometres
and/or time walked were recorded over 10 weeks. Progress reports and spot
prizes aided motivation. A hui (meeting) celebrated participation and
achievement. Certificates were awarded and prizes emphasised physical
activity and healthy eating, e.g., swimming pool passes and fruit.
Evaluation Approach
Team leaders recorded kilometres/time walked. A sample of participants was
surveyed on their perceptions of the project and impact on walking behaviours.
The next Haere Hikoi Haere has planned a pre- and post- participant survey,
focus groups, interviews and participant observation. This will determine
if the project is reaching the relatively inactive, levels of physical
activity, and if walking has been sustained.
Implications for the Practitioner
Employing a highly motivated Maori role model, and face to face contact with
the community, assisted success. Measuring time proved easier than kilometres,
reinforcing the recommendation of 30 minutes most days. This project has been
adapted from the New Zealand Heart Foundation 'Stroll, Strut and Stride'
walking programme designed for workplaces, and is applicable in a variety
of settings.
Acknowledgements
Judy Wood, Sarah Tumai, Luke Stevens, Maraea Craft
