New fitness coordinator to rev up wellness program

August 14, 2017

The Diabetes Education Program at the Texas A&M Coastal Bend Health Education Center is putting its curriculum into action by implementing a physical fitness program for class participants.

Last month, Josh Laudig was brought on board to work with health educators in applying practical, low-impact exercise routines for those with diabetes.

“Exercise has a positive impact on everyone’s quality of life,” said Laudig, a certified personal trainer. “My main goal is education by helping community members achieve a healthier, more active lifestyle.”

Laudig said a challenge for the fitness program will be “adapting exercise regimens for each person with diabetes according to their abilities.”

The fitness program, set to begin in early September, will be offered in conjunction with the classroom portion of the Diabetes Education Program. Over the course of eight weeks, participants will learn how to properly perform safe exercises on their own so they can continue to be physically active long after completing the program.

“We want to learn how each person responds to the level of exercise and adapt to their needs,” he said. “This program will be tailored to the individual to reinforce what they’re learning in the classroom.”

Laudig, a Friendswood, Texas native, has a bachelor’s degree in sport management from Texas A&M University and previously worked as a fitness specialist for the parks and recreation department in Pearland.

-Les D. Cockrell