Author: Gary Lemke

The status quo offers familiarity and habit. It avoids the anxiety of thinking about the unknown behind the new door. We convince ourselves to settle for “good enough.” When it comes to health, most people want something more than “good enough.” We want to live our best life. We want to win our personal championships… Read more

What do you teach? Interestingly, health educators offer a wide range of answers including: These responses seem acceptable and accepted practice. Is one better than the other? Perhaps so, perhaps not. I assume the integrity of each can be vigorously defended by their supporters. Without picking winners and losers, a common theme emerges. There is… Read more

I recently introduced the Interactive Health Triad, my thesis for the inter-related nature of health, wellness, and well-being (​more​). The Triad highlights health in action. It is a reminder that health knowledge needs active engagement and personal agency. It works for all health topics. How does the Health Triad compare to the Health Triangle? Historically,… Read more

I am the offspring of two lifetime smokers. In my youth, tobacco use was normal, a part of everyday life. Media (TV, print, radio) encouraged smoking. Smoking was commonplace in restaurants, airports, and other public places. Ashtrays were standard equipment in automobiles. Some of my peers became smokers. I never picked up the habit. In… Read more

How would you answer this question? “What’s the difference between wellness, and well-being?” If you are the health/PE teacher in the building, the more likely question – “What is it that you teach?” The Health Triad explains the inter-related nature of health, wellness, and well-being. The Triad is a reminder that health knowledge without personal action is… Read more

I find it interesting that a person’s health is often influenced by their relationship with the word “health.” The same is true for how others feel about health (and physical) education. Historically, many people associated health ed with subjects like sex, drugs, and . . . well, you get the point. Sadly, such a narrow… Read more

In the world of social media, I’m somewhat of a “thing.” Well, maybe among a very small group of people who share my last name. While I have a recognizable handle among the Lemke tribe – @lemke​ – some think I should do more with the brand. I’m at peace with my limited engagement. That… Read more