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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY KIT (PAK)

Staying on the active path in native communities... a lifespan approach! If any content on this page is not accessible, please contact the web coordinator at: 520-670-4805
OVERVIEW   ::   RESOURCES    ::    TRAINING

Physical Activity Kit boxWhat is the PAK?

The Physical Activity Kit (PAK) is based on best and promising practices to increase physical activity. The PAK toolkit can be used in schools, communities, worksites, Head Start programs, elderly centers, and youth programs.


Goal of the PAK

To increase the time spent in medium to high physical activity for all ages across the lifespan. The activities have been field tested to be culturally appropriate for Native communities.
PAK through partnership

The Indian Health Service and the University of New Mexico Prevention Research Center partnered to promote living a healthy lifestyle focusing on physical activity.
  		• The PAK program promotes "Staying on the Active Path... a lifespan approach."
  		• The PAK program includes: Modified American Indian Games, Exercise Breaks, Mt. Pathways, Great Race, Native American dance aerobics and powwow dances.
  		• The program is designed for young people, adults, elders, and contains different exercises (strength, flexibility, cardio, and demonstration/activities).
  		• The set-up and directions for the PAK elements are explained with teaching cues.

    Group Picture

    PAK field site trainees and trainers, 2007

    Elements of the PAK
  		• Modified American Indian Games:
    The traditional games insure safety while keeping their original nature.
  		• Exercise Breaks:
    Many of the activities promote how movement can be done in a small space with little or no equipment.
  		• Mt. Pathways:
    The challenge has six stations that focus on five trails with increasing levels of physical activity.
  		• The Great Race:
    A walk/run event that includes goal setting and daily charting of physical activity.

    In 2007, the PAK was field tested at the following sites:
    Map of PAK pilot sites
  		• Fort Defiance, Arizona
  		• San Carlos, Arizona
  		• Window Rock, Arizona
  		• Plummer, Idaho
  		• Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
  		• Lame Deer, Montana
  		• Isleta, New Mexico
  		• Navajo, New Mexico
  		• San Felipe, New Mexico
  		• Sheep Srings, New Mexico
  		• Shiprock, New Mexico
  		• Rosebud, South Dakota
  		• Sisseton, South Dakota
  		• Bellingham, Washington


    PAK Pilot Site Comments:
  		• "Kids had fun, they didn’t want to stop."
  		• "Easily adaptable (games) and can use with any age group."
  		• "Easy to use."
  		• "People moving in a fun way (interactive)."
  		• "Kids think fun rather than exercising."