Take Action! California 5 a Day—Be Active! Worksite Program: Workshops and Activities

Purpose

Workshops are a fun and interactive way to get people to try new activities and learn about the health benefits of fruits and vegetables and physical activity.

Equipment

Prior to the session, determine if the presenter needs a special room arrangement or audiovisual equipment.

Preparation

1. Experts on nutrition and physical activity can be found by contacting a variety of organizations and resources within your community. Check the phone book and local newspapers. Potential resources include county health departments, local grocery stores, community-supported agriculture organizations, instructional studios, fitness facilities, sporting good stores, representatives from your company's health plan, and other local health organizations. Explain that you would like someone to come to your site to give an introduction to the skill or activity and a simple demonstration, if possible. Try to limit the session to 45 minutes.

2. When selecting an instructor or speaker be sure to check the credentials and/or qualifications of the speakers. Instructors may be willing to offer the presentation for free, if given the opportunity to promote their organization.

3. Look for experts within your organization. There may be people at your company who already have a special talent or skill who would be willing to share it with their coworkers.

   Examples of Activities and Workshops
   Healthy cooking demonstrations	Camping/hiking
   Reading nutrition labels	Power walking
   Shopping tips	Yoga
   Healthy dining	Dancing, such as line dancing, salsa, disco
   Disease prevention and early detection (cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, etc.)	Martial arts Tai chi
   Cholesterol/blood pressure screening	Juggling

4. Schedule the workshop for a casual day during lunch or before work. Check with the expert before the session about what the participants should wear. Try to limit demonstrations to activities that can be done wearing business attire and tennis shoes.

5. Promote the event to participants.

The Day of the Activity

1. Remind participants of the activity.

2. Make sure the room is set up and any needed equipment is available and working properly.