Claudio Battaglini is a man who wears many hats — and each of those hats helps someone lead a better life. From cancer patients to athletes to students at UNC-Chapel Hill, Battaglini dedicates his passion and scholarship to improving the health and wellness of others (and he still finds time to train for triathlons!)
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfZuV4j4664&list=UUtWAPF8RlSqd6kkVPqAyJNg&index=1&feature=plcp[/youtube]When asked why exercise is so important, Battaglini chuckles and claims he is biased.
“You know, I’m very biased because I am an avid exerciser. I have been exercising since I was 4 years old,” he said. “I have been involved in sports my whole life.”
Battaglini is an associate professor of exercise and sport science (specializing in exercise physiology) in the College of Arts and Sciences. After eight years at Carolina, he says the best part of his job is his students.
“They’re invested in their education,” he said. “I absolutely love working with them.”
In addition to teaching, Battaglini is the co-founder and co-director of the Get REAL & HEEL After Care Breast Cancer Program. The program, which began in 2006, is designed to provide breast cancer survivors with physical and psychological tools to help them rehabilitate their minds and bodies from the debilitating effects of radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
“I think one of the beauties of the program is seeing these patients getting back to work, functioning again and enjoying time with their families,” Battaglini said. “That’s the whole point.”
For more information about Get REAL & HEEL, visit http://www.unc.edu/depts/recreate.
Professors with Passion is a video series spotlighting outstanding teachers and scholars in the College of Arts and Sciences throughout 2012. If you know a professor who deserves to be in the spotlight, contact Dee Reid, director of communications, at deereid@unc.edu.
[ Text and video by Mary Lide Parker ’10]
