Info on the Melpomene Institute

WOMEN'S HEALTH AND MULTISPORT
The following letter was sent to  Valerie (Women's co-chair)  and Karen (AgeGroup co-chair) by the Melpomene Institute.  Check out the site.  It sounds useful and interesting.  If you are a woman 65+, read the section on their  women's study below. 

To: ktbuxton@worldnet.att.net
Cc: liz.dobbins@triathlonacademy.com
Sent: Thursday, November 01, 2001 1:11 PM
Subject: Melpomene Institute for Women's Health

Dear Ms. Buxton and Ms. Dobbins,

I am writing at the suggestion of Ann Snoeyenbos, a USAT coach who attended a recent gathering of Melpomene members and friends in New York. Ann said you are working with the USAT Triathlon for athletes age 50+, and as Melpomene Institute’s research and programs are linked to this age group, I wanted to let you know more about us, in hopes we could share information with the USAT coaches and let them know what we do.

Melpomene Institute is the only organization in the country helping women and girls link health and physical activity through research, education, and publication. We strive to the be the foremost networking resource for women and girls seeking to improve their lives and health through the enjoyment and challenge of physical activity. Our primary purpose is to help women and girls form lifelong habits of physical activity that will improve their health and lives, through education and outreach based on solid research. More information about Melpomene Institute can be obtained on our website at www.melpomene.org.

Melpomene staff acts as an expert source of information to scores of media outlets, contributing to more than 100 articles in the national media last year. Melpomene also provides speakers on issues related to women’s health and physical activity for corporations, foundations, educators and family groups. “When I want information on women and health, I turn to the Institute,” says tennis pro Billie Jean King.

We are currently finalizing a research project to examine Aging and Exercise in 2001/2002. A survey has been designed to explore the special issues and circumstances of women ages 65 and over, especially relating to exercise and their continued health and well-being. If it is possible to reach these women through the USAT coaches, and let them know about Melpomene’s work on behalf of aging women, we would appreciate it.

In addition, I would like to suggest that you consider asking Judy Mahle Lutter, Melpomene’s founder and our Chief Executive Officer, to speak at an upcoming event or conference in the future. At age 62, Judy still competes in triathlons and other athletic events. She is an engaging motivational speaker and expert resource for anyone wishing to know more about physical activity and women’s health.

Melpomene also offers educational resources and products for women 50+, including Let’s Get Moving, a booklet offering encouragement and tips for older women who are thinking of starting an exercise program, or who need support to continue exercising.

I am therefore hopeful that you might be able to help me reach the USAT coaches working with older women in the upcoming AARP triathlon. Is that possible? I am also trying to locate the Women's Commission at USAT, and would like their e-mail address if there is one.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

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