Veterans’ health refers to the health care services, and support provided to military veterans who have served in the Australian armed forces, as well as their families. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is responsible for providing a range of health and well-being services to eligible veterans, which may include medical treatment, rehabilitation, and mental health support. Following is how Atkins Health can help veterans live healthier and more comfortable lives.
Physical Rehabilitation
Many veterans suffer from physical injuries as a result of their service. Allied health practitioners such as physiotherapists and exercise physiologists can help individuals manage their pain, improve their mobility, and regain their independence. These professionals can provide a range of treatments such as exercise programs, manual therapy, and assistive devices to help veterans overcome their physical limitations.
Chronic Disease Management
Many veterans also suffer from chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Allied health practitioners such as dietitians and respiratory therapists can provide education and support to help veterans manage their conditions and improve their overall health and well-being.
Atkins Health proudly supports Veteran Games hosted by Veteran Force. Held on the Gold Coast, current and former serving personnel compete in teams in military-style events that include an Obstacle Course Challenge, Team Tug-of-War Competition and other problem-solving tasks replicating military and combat challenges.
To help veterans plan for events such as this our Exercise Physiologists have put together a training plan… perfect preparation for a team planning to conquer the Games! Being open to all veterans, the program targets participants who compete in Veterans Games, are looking to prepare for other events, or just looking to have fun with a group of mates.
The sessions are focused on:
Learn more about the event and our training plan.
We’re ready to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Whether you’re a veteran, or the carer or family member of a veteran, book a call to learn more about our veteran services and how we can provide tailored support. All veteran programs commence with a 45 minute-assessment from which we will design a custom exercise program.
From programs designed around PTSD, Parkinson’s Disease, osteoporosis, back and knee pain, in either individual and group-based settings, we cater the approach to the specific needs of our veterans.
What Types of Exercises Help Are Beneficial to Veterans?
Physical fitness is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. However, choosing the right exercises can be challenging. While some exercises may be effective for some, they may not be the best for others. Following are some of the types of exercise we may include in programs designed for veterans:
Resistance Training
Resistance training, (sometimes also referred to as weightlifting), is a great way for veterans to build muscle, improve bone health, and increase overall strength. Resistance training can be done using a variety of equipment, including free weights, resistance bands, and machines. Resistance training starts with lifting lighter weights initially and gradually increasing weight as strength improves.
Cardiovascular Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and lungs. Running, brisk walking, cycling, and swimming are all great ways to get the heart pumping. These exercises also help to burn calories, reduce stress, and improve overall mood. Veterans should aim to do at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise if possible, five days a week.
Pilates
Pilates is a low-impact exercise that is great for improving flexibility, balance, and reducing stress. It’s also an excellent way to improve mental health and focus. Veterans who may have experienced trauma during their service can benefit from the mindfulness and relaxation techniques found in Pilates.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a low-impact exercise that is great for veterans who may have joint pain or injuries.
Atkins Health CEO Tobias Atkins has been focussed on supporting our veteran community since the company’s inception: “Our relationship with the veteran community stems all the way to the beginnings of Atkins Health. From the very start my team has been working with our invaluable veteran community trying to give back to those who have made sacrifices for us. Veterans we work with tell us that they enjoy a sense of camaraderie during our programs similar to that which they experienced during their years of service.”
Veterans play a crucial role in our society, and we owe them our gratitude and support. Our allied health programs help veterans transition smoothly into civilian life and provide ongoing support needed for health and wellness. Whether they’re our physical programs, one-on-one training, classes, online resources, or community-based programs, we make sure that our veterans receive the support they deserve.
If you are a veteran and looking for more information on how to access our services, programs and our classes, please fill the form below and our team member will provide more specific advice on services available to reach your health, fitness and wellness goals.
An initial 45 minute assessment with one of our practitioners is required for us to understand your current health status, lifestyle and goals.
We will design a customised program specifically for you to follow to reach your goals, be that at one of our gym-based clinics, at home, or through telehealth coaching.
We conduct six-weekly assessments to ensure that we review your achievements against your goals, and reset requirements for the next period.
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