Take a Hike: How to Structure Physical Exercise into Offender Rehab

• NCJ Number: 191584
• Journal: CTM-Corrections Technology & Management Volume: 5 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2001 Pages: 44-46
• Author(s): D. J. Williams
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article provides information on how physical exercise works in offender rehabilitation.

Abstract

Research over the past 2 decades has shown regular exercise to be associated with improvements in many aspects of mental health. For some individuals, exercise may be helpful in preventing substance abuse relapse. To be effective, exercise programming must be complementary to the goals and function of the larger rehabilitation effort. While exercise has a place in offender rehabilitation, there are therapeutic considerations that may restrict certain types of physical activity. At times there can be potentially negative effects from including exercise in rehabilitation. It is best to make sure the inclusion of exercise complements individual offender therapy and that there are specific treatment purposes for including exercise. Because therapy comes first and exercise is an opportunity for offenders to realize treatment goals, the entire treatment team should be as supportive of exercise therapy as they are of other treatment modalities targeted at changing affect, cognition, and behavior. It is desirable that a staff member has had training in exercise prescription. The amount and type of exercise equipment can vary depending on the number of offenders participating in the program and the security level and function of the facility. Types of activities are dependent on the equipment available to the offender. It is most effective to capitalize on an activity that the offender is already doing or wants to do. If the offender does not show interest in any particular activity, perhaps he can start slowly with an activity that is based on his past experience. Increasing activity in small doses can have significant cumulative effects on physical health. The most important consideration is how treatment goals can be promoted and accomplished through physical activity.