The Physical Therapy Program at the University of Cauca, in coordination with various governmental and non-governmental organizations, commemorated World Physical Activity Day on April 23, 2025, with a wonderful community event at the Alfonso López neighborhood sports complex in Popayán.

At our Alma Mater in Cauca, promoting healthy lifestyles and wellness—both physical and emotional—is a true passion. It's an unmistakable hallmark of our University, an institution deeply committed to the well-being of its people. For that reason, the Physical Therapy Program led the commemoration of World Physical Activity Day with a major event held on April 23, 2025, at the Alfonso López sports complex in Popayán.

 

 

The initiative, developed under the slogan “Time to Get Moving,” was carried out in partnership with the Alfonso López University Health Center—also part of our academic institution—and, thanks to outstanding collaborative efforts, it involved key organizations such as the Popayán Municipal Health Department, Indeportes Cauca, the Purple Patrol of the National Police, and the Colombian Physical Activity Network.

More than 300 people participated in the event, including an especially noteworthy group of 140 older adults who decided to get moving. Students from the sixth, seventh, and tenth semesters of the Physical Therapy Program played a leading role in the planning and execution of the event’s activities. This work was developed as part of their coursework in Exercise Prescription, Physical Activity and Sport Practice, and the Sports Specialization Elective—strengthening their professional competencies in real-world, hands-on settings. What a fantastic way to bring theory into practice in a meaningful and challenging context!

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Blood pressure monitoring, guided physical activity sessions, recreational spaces, and sports dance sessions were just some of the many activities offered. The outcome couldn’t have been more positive: the day ended with the joy of having hosted a truly beneficial event for the physical and emotional well-being of all attendees.

“There was always a warm and fraternal atmosphere, which allowed for intergenerational encounters, community integration, and active participation,” said Professor Jeffry Alexander Hoyos Quisoboni from the Physical Therapy Program, who led the event's organization.

“The positive impact we aim for with these kinds of initiatives is to promote healthy habits and lifestyles as tools for well-being and disease prevention. Of course, we also strive to foster new opportunities for community engagement and to continue the development of strategies that position physical activity as a key element in the health of older adults and the university community,” Professor Hoyos concluded, proud of the contribution made through this meaningful initiative.

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Without a doubt, the University of Cauca celebrates and deeply values this type of initiative. It brings to life the fourth pillar of the Institutional Development Plan, “For a University of Excellence and Solidarity,” which focuses on promoting culture and well-being as drivers of progress. At the same time, it strengthens ties with the local territory. Initiatives like this reaffirm Unicauca’s commitment to its community—especially to the Alfonso López neighborhood and its people—bringing joy, health, and hope through joint and compassionate efforts.

 

Written by: Communications Management Center