Executive Summary:

According to the Nielsen Global Health & Wellness Survey (2015) 49% of global respondents believe they are overweight, and half are trying to lose weight. Lifestyle choices are critical for health. Professionals report that smoking, overuse of alcohol, poor diet, lack of physical activity and inadequate relief of chronic stress result in the development and progression of preventable chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, tension, cardiovascular diseases, and several types of cancer. The Tobacco Atlas alerts that in Armenia 52.3% of adults smoke daily, and 29.2% of deaths are caused by it (2015). This is already a serious fact proving that poor lifestyle choices are critical in Armenia as well. In 2015, Global Shapers Yerevan Hub initiated “Be active, Live Healthy” movement to promote healthy lifestyle in partnership with the Coca-Cola HBC Armenia and with the support of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, Marog Creative Agency, and Yerevan Municipality. In the framework of the project during the months between August and October several sports festivals were organized in various locations of Armenia, including Yerevan and 2 regions, Shirak, and Armavir). The types of events included workout fests, cycling classes, outdoor fitness, beach volleyball, student basketball, cycling marathon and other sports events. Moreover, different educational materials were designed and distributed to promote healthy habits among the population. Within 3 months, 10,000 people from Yerevan and other regions participated in regular physical activities and competitions promoting healthy lifestyle. More than 70,000 people were engaged through different awareness raising activities and social media campaigns including the distribution of 9,000 copies of educational materials.

Goals:

- Directly engage people in various events designed to promote healthy lifestyle.

- Raise awareness about the importance of maintaining active lifestyle and balanced diet, as well as trigger interest towards sports through entertainment.

Impact:

- 10,000 people were directly involved in the movement

- 70,000 people were engaged through awareness raising activities

- 9,000 copies of educational materials were distributed

Organizations and Stakeholders:

Coca-Cola HBC Armenia

Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs

Yerevan Municipality

Marog Creative Agency

Basketball Federation

Street Workout Federation

Mybike.am

American Councils Armenia