Biarritz, France – The Aviron Bayonnais (Bayonne Rugby) Foundation has partnered with Initial Santé to launch “Health in Motion,” a new program designed to promote physical activity and wellness among patients managing chronic illnesses. The initiative, which began on Wednesday, March 4th, utilizes a unique approach, integrating adapted sports with the expertise of medical professionals and elite athletes.
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The inaugural session, held on March 4th at the Aviron Bayonnais Campus (AB Campus), saw approximately twenty patients with chronic conditions participate in “Run Archery,” a combination of archery and walking. The program is a collaboration between the Aviron Bayonnais Foundation, Initial Santé, and the Maison Sport Santé Nivadour.
“It’s Real Life”
Beyond the physical benefits, the program fosters a sense of community among participants, according to Dr. Benjamin Laffourcade of Initial Santé. “In addition to the physical benefits, which are well-established, physical activity has benefits for those suffering from chronic illnesses,” he said. “There is also, and above all, a real social connection between these people, who have diabetes, a blocked artery, or are undergoing chemotherapy; they come together around a sports health practice, share experiences with professionals, there is no judgment, it’s real life.”
Six Activities Proposed
“Health in Motion” will encompass six activities linked to sporting events. Upcoming events include rugby walking sessions with Aviron Bayonnais players in April; rowing on the Nive river with Perle Bouge, a para-rowing world champion, in May; longe-côte (coastal rowing) in Hendaye or Saint-Jean-de-Luz in June; boxotherapy at the Belascain stadium with Marie-Pierre Barthe Sadran, a judge-arbitrator at the Paris 2024 Olympics, in July; a hike to La Rhune mountain in August; and a cycling tour along the Nive river in September.
Gérard Bafcop, president of the Maison Sport santé Nivadour, explained the program’s broader goal: “This initiative aims to make adapted physical activity a natural health reflex, mobilizing doctors, beneficiaries, and associations around a common ambition. Over a six-month period, this program aims to facilitate the transition from prescription to sports practice and create a lasting connection between patients with chronic illnesses, caregivers, and sports health professionals in the region.”
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The Aviron Bayonnais Foundation’s initiative represents a growing trend of professional sports organizations actively engaging in community health programs. By leveraging their resources and athlete partnerships, they aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing health challenges. The next scheduled event is the rugby walking session at the AB Campus in April.
