Fitness Challenge launches with opening dinner

Among the variety of events TeamOC offers to make health a priority, one of the events requires semester-long dedication — the Fitness Challenge — a 15-week health and fitness initiative for Oklahoma Christian University faculty and staff.

Darci Thompson, coordinator of the challenge and director of Wellness, is responsible for organizing events and programs offered by TeamOC.

“I knew encouraging others to be healthy and fit was something that I wanted to do,” Thompson said. “This program became an idea in my mind that I wanted to make happen, and it has developed into way more than I thought it would.”

At the dinner Thursday, participants enjoy a catered meal and learn about the specific requirements and goals expected throughout the program.

The program consists of exercising a specific amount of hours each week with a trainer, as well as keeping a food journal with the help of nutritionists and walking a specific number of steps each day.

Emily Campbell went through the program last year and said she is excited about participating again.

“I like the group effort,” Campbell said. “Being with people who work here helps a lot.”

This year the Fitness Challenge has a total of 60 participants.

TeamOC offers a variety of runs throughout the years and 15 weekly classes for students that include kickboxing, yoga, Zumba, boot camp and swim aerobics. The Dub Fitness Center, intramurals and various excursions throughout the year, including trips that feature propelling and climbing, are also offered to students.

Thompson encourages students to get involved with at least one of the many options TeamOC offers.

“We would love for people to be a part of our programs and watch them grow.” Thompson said.

Campbell said she encourages students to get involved, even if they are intimidated about the physical challenges they might face.

“Just stick with it,” Campbell said. “It’s hard, it’s tiring and you’re sore a lot, walking all around campus, but just stick with it and don’t give up.”

For more information on TeamOC can be found here.

00