August 22, 2011
‘Salukis Move, Too’ will promote physical activity
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A twist on the popular flash mob will promote fitness and physical activity at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Recreational Sports and Services is teaming up with the Alpha Alpha Chapter of Eta Sigma Gamma, a professional health education honorary, to sponsor “Salukis Move, Too!” at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 31, in the grassy area behind Pulliam Hall. The invitation is out for all students to wear their Saluki maroon or white shirts and join in the pre-choreographed dance routine set to Beyonce’s Let’s Move! “Move Your Body” video.
“Making physical activity challenging and fun could motivate more SIUC students to stay active. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is substantial evidence that physical activity can improve cognitive skills and academic achievement. At SIUC, this could mean not only healthier students, but also more successful students,” said Joyce Fetro, chair of the health education and recreation department in the College of Education and Human Services.
The event will take place during the College of Education and Human Services welcome back picnic. Organizers hope to fill the lawn with SIUC colors and get everyone moving, rain or shine.
Unlike traditional flash mobs, this activity is open to anyone in the SIUC community who wants to learn the routine. People can watch the official video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYP4MgxDV2U to learn the dance. Or, there will be an optional practice at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 25, in the Pulliam Hall gymnasium.
“It is important that undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty and staff continue to incorporate 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity into every week. We must remember to move,” said Shanell L. McGoy, president of SIUC’s Eta Sigma Gamma.According to event organizers, “Salukis Move, Too” is an offshoot of the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation’s “Let’s Move!” flash workout held in May at more than 600 middle schools across the country and in support of Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign to reduce childhood obesity. McGoy said the event at SIUC is to increase awareness and get everyone moving.