Only at Western

The Exercise Science department at Western Wyoming Community College will conduct the pre-testing for its annual Wellness Challenge on February 4, 5, and 6.

The Wellness Challenge is an opportunity for local citizens to jump-start their exercise routine and establish better health habits.

Anyone can participate. There are categories for individuals, teams and families. A small fee will be charged to cover the cost of the prizes for the winners.

The WWCC Wellness Challenge is facilitated completely by students enrolled in the Exercise Science program. “This program is the springboard for many different career paths,” said Dorothy Harton, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science. Many become personal trainers, instructors, physical therapists, and coaches.

“We hope that our students understand that exercise is a science,” said WWCC Assistant Professor of Exercise Science, John Liccardo, “that it is measurable whether you’re helping someone in the gym or training an Olympic athlete.”

To enter the challenge you must attend the pre-testing.

Green River pre-testing will be held at the Green River Center on February 4 from 4 until 8 p.m. Post-testing will be held on April 15 from 4 until 8 p.m. Pre-testing in Rock Springs will be at the WWCC Atrium on February 5 from 4 until 8 p.m. and February 6 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Post-testing in Rock Springs will be held April 16 from 4 until 8 p.m. and April 17 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Pre-testing takes about 15-20 minutes and will include body composition, muscle strength, flexibility, and the cardiovascular test has changed from a step test to a walk test to make it safer for the participants.

In conjunction with the pre-testing, WWCC Exercise Science students will be conducting a mini health fair that will include a goal setting booth to help participants plan out their exercise strategy as well as a nutrition booth. Students will also have several exercise stations set up to show participants how to use various exercise equipment.

A nutritionist from the University of Wyoming will also be available to answer questions and give participants suggestions on how to reach their goals.

As an added incentive, the WWCC Weight Room and Wellness Center will be open to participants free of charge every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m.