Ten years ago, health officials had not yet coined the phrase “obesity epidemic.”  Most individuals were not aware that the weight of Americans was rising as our consumption of fast food increased and our activity levels decreased. The number of teenagers with Type II diabetes or the number of overweight children was not headline news. Now, some college students enter college with health concerns—high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, low back pain, and sleep disorders—normally faced by middle-aged adults.

In a short time, these courses have helped Western students gain the personal health and fitness skills they need to be successful in college and beyond. As crucial parts of the Liberal Studies core curriculum and of the preparation of tomorrow’s teachers, these courses prepare our students to be contributing and informed citizens in a global community.

For more information on Western’s wellness courses, please contact the department.