What is Green Prescription (GRx)?

Green Prescription is a primary health initiative where GP's and practice nurses write a referral for a patient to access support for increasing physical activity. Motivation, support and guidance is provided by the Green Prescription team at Sport Wellington Region.  Ask your doctor or practice nurse if a Green Prescription is right for you.

At least 30 minutes physical activity on most days of the week can assist in the management of chronic disease such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes, anxiety, arthritis, osteoarthritis, depression and respiratory conditions.  If you take less than 2.5 hours of active leisure a week you could need a green prescription from your GP to help get more active, more often and add more life to your years.

The GRx system is based on the health message of the US Surgeon General that an accumulated 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, preferably every day, will improve the health of most people. So, you can "snack" on activity by taking three 10 minute, or two 15 minute walks instead of one longer one. 

Look at physical activity as an opportunity not an inconvenience.  There are many ways to fit activity into your day eg: taking the stairs, walking the kids to school, or parking your car further away from your destination:

How am I supported by the Grx Team?

• Phone Support

Phone support is a free service offering help and motivation for a period of 3-4 months.  Our support staff help people to find enjoyable physical activity options, assist them to fit these activities into their routine and form a regular habit.

• Community Healthy Lifestyle Programmes

We also now partner with other organisations to provide free and low cost physical activity and wellness programmes in the community.  These consist of educational workshops and physical activity that can include aqua-aerobics, gym workouts, walking and sit and be fit.

More information on Green Prescription Healthy Lifestyle Programmes

Green Prescription Success Stories

1. The Aqua Pasifika inititive has been a real hit in Kilbirnie.  Click here for the Aqua Pasifika success story

2. Allan made a decision to change his lifestyle this year and has not looked back since.  Click here for Allan's GRX success story

3. Click here for Chris Davis success story