Movement through physical activity and exercise helps us feel better physically and mentally. Exercise intervention can help reduce the risk of long-term conditions. Our Physical Activity Education Service can work with you one-on-one, or in a group setting to help you learn more about improving your wellbeing through exercise.
Meet Tui Saumala. Tui was referred by his GP for support with his physical activity to help him manage his type 2 diabetes.
Tui was referred to Grant Hansen, Clinical Exercise Physiologist Team Leader for THINK Hauora in January to support Tui to establish an in-home exercise programme.
Tui's results after 12 weeks with the programme showed an 11.3% increase in his walking distance with the 6-minute walk test. He can now do things more confidently, is in control of his depression and the daily family stressors, feels stable on his feet, is not as tired in the afternoons, no longer gets cramp and the original pain he experienced in his right leg has gone.
Following the 12-week programme, Tui is confident that he can self-manage his own physical activity. Tui feels he has enough equipment and knowledge to be able to exercise at home and plans to keep active with his family by going for bike rides at the Esplanade.
"Since starting this programme with Grant Hansen there has been huge progress in my health and my motivation. I am very honoured to have this opportunity to grow and transition, and to reach my goal to have my diabetes reversed in the future so I can be with my young family. Thank you to Grant Hansen and THINK Hauora as I now have the well-being to succeed”
- Tui Saumala
