Mega Pausa+Ativa brings sport to campus I

The Pausa+Ativa (Pause+Active) initiative, part of the UC Sports Week, got more than 200 people moving for about ten minutes.
"It's even nicer outdoors," said Fernando Loureiro, a UC employee and Pausa+Ativa fan. "With the sun and this weather, I thought it was wonderful," he added.

"Sónia Cardoso, who also participated in the activity, said, "It's a privilege to work at a university that has an incredible heritage and that combines sport with this space [Pátio das Escolas]. "It was a bit more challenging than usual, but it was a really good initiative."

Rafael Rodrigues was in charge of the mega Pausa+Ativa, with low-impact exercises and stretching. He says it was a "very significant" moment, given the "emblematic and historic space" in which it took place.
Pausa+Ativa is promoted by UC Sport, which aims to promote an active and healthy lifestyle in the workplace. UC teachers, researchers and technical staff can take part in the initiative every week, with the support of an instructor who visits the different UC services and departments.

The physical activity didn't stop at the Pátio das Escolas. The MUV app was also launched, encouraging the UC community to "choose cycling, electric bikes or even walking as their daily means of transport", explains Rafael Rodrigues. Over a four-week period, participants will earn points every time they choose sustainable mobility.

At the end of the sports event, top finishers will be rewarded with "gift cards, sweaters, T-shirts and backpacks". The aim is to encourage physical activity and help reduce the number of cars on the road and CO2 emissions: "We're not only scoring points for our own health, we're also making the environment healthier and more sustainable," he concludes.