Spelman Scraps Athletic Program, Teams Up With Celebrity Fitness Expert AJ Johnson

Spelman College, the oldest historically black college for women in America, has decided at the end of the month, to shut down the entire athletic department. What’s the rationale? The HBCU, which currently enrolls about 2,100 students, spent almost $ 1 million dollars on athletics for the 2012-13 academic year, can’t afford to keep the program. Spelman instead has decided to team up with former Alumnae, actress and fitness guru A.J. Johnson to launch “Wellness Revolution.” As part of that revolution, Johnson introduced students to “21 Days of Fit.” The ‘Baby Boy’ star created the title based on the belief that it takes 21 days to begin a new behavior or habit. AJ explained:

“I want to make sure that everyone understands that this is 21 days to better.  It is going to cover nutrition, fitness and our mental and spiritual health because all of that, as far as I’m concerned, plays a part in your overall better. There will be daily guidance given with an online program in every (area). I’ll be making healthy food choices in the cafeteria, and helping students with workouts in the gym and leading career planning discussions. Little things can create better health, so try to make the little things habits, like drinking water and exercising regularly.”

The Wellness Revolution is an attempt by school officials to combat the large range of health issues negatively affecting African American woman such as high blood pressure, sugar diabetes, and obesity.The Revolution kicked off  last week with a 5K Run/Walk. A.J. has worked with Gabrielle Union and Oscar-winner Anne Hathaway.

[NYT,Spelman,Twitter]

-@crelsmusic