Memphis the home the blues, barbecue and many overweight Memphians.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the city is ranked the fifth fattest city in America. With those statistics hovering around the city, The University of Memphis is hosting its 13th annual Health Fair. The fair will take place October 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Student Activities Plaza, next to the fountain.
Free health screenings, free food and door prizes will be just some of the things offered during fair.
”We want to make sure that all our students know what resources are available to them, on campus and the surrounding area that can help to improve or maintain their health,” Jacque De Fouw, U of M Health Educator said.
The educator said she wanted to make sure everything was free and convenient for students. The fair will include over 40 informational exhibits with some even offering free screenings.
“We only allow non-profit organizations to take part in the health fair organizations like American Heart, American Cancer, A Step Ahead, Plan Parenthood, Tiger Bank,” Jacque De Fouw said.
To kick things off, the fair will begin by having a three-mile Fun Run/Walk. Participants who wish to take part in the 5K walk/run can register in advance at the Student Health Center or by calling 678-4745. Attendees can also sign up the day of the event, the walk will begin at 7 a.m. at the fountain. After completion of the walk/run participants will be awarded with a certificate.
“We had over 250 students last year to the do the walk so it can get kind of crowded,” the health specialist said.
Outside of the informal exhibits the fair give attendees a chance to participate in-group fitness classes and exercise demonstrations. These events will be hosted by U of M’s Campus Recreation Intramural Services (CRIS), from 10:30 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. CRIS instructors will be in a separate tent near the University Center leading in activities such as; Yoga, Hip Hop, Kam Jam, Cycle and even a Rhodes college instructor teaching Tai Chi.
Throughout the day door prizes will be given out to students attend at least three exhibits. Sub-sandwiches and beverages will be offer to attendees that have three stamps on their special slips given to you at the entrance of the fair.
“We will give away prizes like campus coupons, Memphis Tiger paraphernalia, and other restaurants gift cards,” Linda Hall, coordinator of Multicultural Affairs said.
