OTTUMWA — An education group helping locals improve their fitness will still make a difference even if they disappear.
Active Ottumwa, a University of Iowa research program, is training people in Ottumwa to lead activities with other residents.
These "physical activity leaders" are not trainers. They lead a walk, for example, at a time that is listed on a monthly calendar. Anyone who wants to participate is welcome to join them.
"We've increased our presence in the community by having six 'physical activity leaders' trained," said Barbara Baquero, a University of Iowa researcher and head of Active Ottumwa.
It's taken time, but they've also built up partnerships locally.
"We're collaborating with Quincy Place Mall, the YMCA, Market on Main, Ottumwa Parks and Rec."
One example of this teamwork: The Active Ottumwa staff opens their downtown office Saturday morning. The YMCA has been sending a certified Tai Chi instructor.
Residents take the class — free.
It's certainly getting more people to use city amenities, said Gene Rathje, the Ottumwa Parks Director.
"They started a water walking event on Fridays at The Beach. And you can see how much people are using the trails," Rathje said, pointing to the slideshow of activities flashing on the wall.
"They're also doing a cemetery walk," said Rathje, who is in charge of Ottumwa's cemeteries.
The goal, said Baquero, is to have a variety of activities available for all ability levels. So if you want to jump around, there's a Zumba activity.
But walking is the number one activity. Next year, they plan to have more programs, including more walking activities. They also want more volunteers to become physical activity leaders.
These enthusiastic community members are the key to making the Active Ottumwa mission a long-lasting one. The other key to the program surviving requires some enthusiasm, too. If you are aware of this program, even if you don't walk, tell others of the program availability. Participation is something the staff wants more of.
Rathje himself is now serving on the Active Ottumwa board.
"We're doing our best to improve people's health," he said.
"Come to our activities," said Baquero. "They're free, and open to everyone."
Reporter Mark Newman can be contacted at mnewman@ottumwacourier.com and followed on Twitter @couriermark.
