As part of the Fapet Bergerak! Sehat Bersama event series, the UGM Faculty of Animal Science , through its Health Promoting Unit (HPU), hosted a talk show titled “One Step Toward Change: An Active Lifestyle and Its Impact on the Productivity of the Academic Community and the Environment” on Friday (24/10) at the drh. R. Soepardjo Auditorium.
The event featured Prof. Dr. Ermawan Susanto, M.Pd., from the Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences (FIKK) at Yogyakarta State University, as the keynote speaker. In his presentation, Prof. Ermawan emphasized that an active lifestyle does not need to begin with strenuous exercise; rather, it can start with small, consistent daily steps.
“Small steps, big changes. Major transformations begin with small habits practiced consistently,” he stated.
He explained that the concept of healthy habits encompasses five key pillars: structured exercise, light daily physical activity (NEAT—Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis), a healthy diet, adequate rest, and stress management.
According to him, physical activities such as morning walks, yoga, swimming, and even dancing are simple yet effective forms of exercise for maintaining fitness and mental stability. “Not everyone has the time to go to the gym, but anyone can walk for 30 minutes a day. It is the simplest and most affordable form of exercise,” he added.
Prof. Ermawan also highlighted the importance of balancing physical and mental well-being. Activities such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindful movement can help reduce stress levels, improve focus, and foster individual happiness. “A healthy body cultivates a positive mind. A positive mind, in turn, boosts productivity,” he emphasized.
This talk show serves as a key part of the Faculty of Animal Science in UGM’s commitment to supporting the Health Promoting University program and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly regarding Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Sustainable Communities (SDG 11).
Through this activity, the academic community of the Faculty is expected to become increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining physical fitness and mental health as part of a productive lifestyle.
“Health is a long-term investment, not an instant result. Let us start with one small step toward a major change,” concluded Prof. Ermawan.
Original article: https://fapet.ugm.ac.id/satu-langkah-menuju-perubahan-gaya-hidup-aktif-dan-produktivitas/
Translated by: Sarah Suminar