Paige Denison has over 20 years of experience working with evidence-based health promotion programs for older adults and adults aging with disability. She is Director of Health, Wellness, and Project Enhance at Sound Generations in Seattle, Washington, where the mission is to support people on their aging journey through community connections and accessible services.
Paige oversees the ongoing research coordination, adaptation, licensing, and dissemination of two health-focused programs that reach over 25,000 unique participants annually: EnhanceWellness and EnhanceFitness. Paige also serves on the Exercise Is Medicine Older Adult Advisory Committee for the American College of Sports Medicine, University of Washington Health Promotion Research Center Community Advisory Board, and is the recent past Chair of the Evidence-Based Leadership Collaborative.
Topics Discussed in This Episode
- What is evidence-based programming
- Connecting health care with fitness professionals
- Social determinants of health
- Aging with disabilities
- Disease-related declines vs deconditioning
- Fitness assessments for groupex programs
- Becoming an Enhanced-Fitness Instructor or Enhanced-Wellness Coach
What is health promotion?
Health promotion is a comprehensive approach that aims to improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities through education, policy advocacy, and environmental changes. It focuses on empowering people to take control of their health through informed decision-making and self-management practices (World Health Organization [WHO], 1986). Personal trainers play a critical role in this process as they engage clients in physical activity and help them adopt healthier lifestyles.
Effective health promotion encompasses several strategies, including awareness campaigns, community programs, and individualized fitness plans that cater to specific health needs (McLeroy et al., 2003). Personal trainers can facilitate health promotion by educating clients about the benefits of regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management techniques. Additionally, they can help create supportive environments that foster healthy choices by guiding safe exercise practices and motivation to adhere to fitness routines.
Ultimately, health promotion is about influencing positive behaviors and creating conditions that enable individuals to achieve optimal health outcomes. By working collaboratively with clients, personal trainers contribute to a culture of health that enhances quality of life and reduces the risk of chronic diseases (O’Donnell, 2009).
Learn more about Project Enhance programs – CLICK HERE.
Learn more about the Scientific Advisory Partners – CLICK HERE.
Learn more about guidance referenced – CLICK HERE.
References Used
McLeroy, K. R., Bibeau, D., Steckler, A., & Glanz, K. (2003). An ecological perspective on health promotion programs. Health Education & Behavior, 15(4), 351-377.
O’Donnell, M. P. (2009). Health promotion in the workplace (3rd ed.). American Journal of Health Promotion.
World Health Organization. (1986). Ottawa charter for health promotion. WHO.
View Online Education – CLICK HERE.
Additional Reads
About the Host
Karyn Silenzi delivers continuing education to companies and fitness professionals on a global scale. As a PRO TRAINER for canfitpro, Karyn provides fitness certification in both PTS (Personal Training Specialist) and FIS (Fitness Instructor Specialist). She is also a LIV North Master Trainer for Canadian markets, and a North America Master Trainer for Team ICG and Life Fitness Academy. Karyn is an international presenter, author, and podcast host.