The West Virginia University Student Recreation Centers popular Ask the Expert service has added a new dimension to its question-and-answer approach to helping members get more healthy�€a blog.
Members will now be able to see answers to frequently-asked health questions online via the WVU Wellness and Nutrition Initiative Ask the Expert blog.
The blog can be accessed athttp://wellnessinfo.blogs.wvu.edu.
The addition of the blog will make it easier for students to access health information on a broader range of topics,said Colleen Harshbarger, Rec Center manager of fitness, wellness and informal recreation.
Through Ask the Expert, Rec members can e-mail a question to, and receive a reply from, University experts with knowledge of exercise programs, eating habits, managing stress, emotional and mental well-being and overall general health.
Members may ask a variety of health-related questions. Examples include: How do I lower my cholesterol? What do I do for a pulled hamstring? What can I do to prevent colds and flu? How do I start an exercise program?
In addition to Harshbarger, who provides expertise on exercise and injury, University experts and their areas of knowledge include:
- Sue Turnbull, Student Health Services�€General Health
- Nettie Freshour, Nutritionist, WVU HealthyU�€Nutrition
- Sam Zizzi, Sports and Exercise Psychology�€Stress Management and Peak Performance
Moreover, Deborah Strouse, an additional expert from Student Health Services, is joining the team, and Cathy Yura of the Carruth Center for Counseling and Psychological Services will also be lining up experts to discuss mental and emotional health.
Experts are available by appointment, depending on the needs of each individual.
WVU offers many programs for students, faculty and staff, which include exercise, nutrition and mental health. The Rec offers free personal training and group classes to its members. Plans are also under way to offer a new group exercise class for people who have a significant amount of weight to lose.
The programs and services are part of WVU President David C. Hardesty, Jr.s Wellness and Nutrition Initiative. The initiative was set forth to get students, faculty, staff and the WVU community more physically active and aware of campus wellness options.
For more information about WVU s Wellness and Nutrition Initiative, visithttp://wellness.wvu.edu/. For information about Ask the Expert, visithttp://www.wvu.edu/~src/wellness/askexpert.htmlor call 304-293-5054