Walk This Way: DEPOWA Aerobics Gets Barracks Women Stepping Up for Their Health
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
The President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has urged barracks women to take a stand for their well-being by incorporating regular exercise and health check-ups into their routines.
Mrs. Musa made these remarks during the DEPOWA Aerobics session held at the NDC Base Camp Ushafa in Bwari Area Council, with the theme “Walk for Health.” The event aimed to highlight the importance of an active lifestyle for women’s health.
“We must take charge of our health,” Mrs. Musa emphasized. “This exercise session today, like Doctor Just informed us, helped identify those with high blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This allows us to provide them with extra care.”
She urged the women to make brisk walking a part of their daily routine, aiming for at least four sessions a week with 10,000 steps each. This, she explained, would enable them to be stronger pillars of support for their families and husbands.
The DEPOWA president highlighted the success stories emerging from the monthly aerobics program. Many barracks women have become more active in their daily lives as mothers and wives. Formations across the country, she added, have embraced the program to promote healthy, active, and productive lifestyles among their women.
Dr. Promise Ogar, a medical expert from the Army Command and NAOWA Hospital Abuja, delivered an informative health talk during the event. She pointed out that simple lifestyle changes, like regular exercise, can help ward off various diseases and illnesses.
“High blood pressure, diabetes, and some cancers are just a few examples,” Dr. Ogar explained. “High blood pressure is when your blood pressure is consistently above the normal range of 140 over 90.”
Dr. Ogar encouraged the women to take responsibility for their health by adopting healthy habits and undergoing regular check-ups. This, she explained, would empower them to understand their health status and prevent potential health problems.
“Being physically active is crucial,” Dr. Ogar stressed. “While aiming for 10,000 steps a day is ideal, even 6,000 steps daily can significantly improve your health. If you’ve been diagnosed with a condition, remember to take your medications regularly. We want to prevent complications associated with diabetes and hypertension, which is why prevention is key.”
The DEPOWA Aerobics program is proving to be a powerful tool in empowering barracks women to prioritize their health and well-being. By taking charge of their health, these women can become even stronger pillars within their families and communities.
Walk This Way: DEPOWA Aerobics Gets Barracks Women Stepping Up for Their Health