News Releases
February 13, 2004
Community-wide project to promote physical fitness
West Georgia Health System and District Four Public Health Services will again launch the annual AIM for 10,000 Steps community-wide exercise program on Saturday, February 28. Registration will be held at Kroger from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additional registration will be offered February 23-27 at Coleman Community Health Center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This month-long program consists of using a highly-sensitive pedometer, which can be clipped to a pocket or waistband, to measure the number of steps each person takes in one day. By adding enough steps to this routine number to total 10,000, participants can achieve the equivalent of a daily workout.
“Exercise has been proven to promote weight control, increase energy, and reduce the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other diseases,” says Linda Mack, MS, RD, CDE, Director of Nutrition Services for WGHS. “Studies also show that the exercise does not have to be a ‘formal’ program, but can consist of a brisk walk for 10 minutes, three times a day, or walking 10,000 steps every day.”
She states that “10,000 steps can be easily be achieved by taking the stairs, parking farther away in the parking lot, taking a quick walk after lunch, walking to meetings, etc.”
The $25 registration fee includes a pedometer, exercise bands, T-shirt, walking diary, and other program materials.Beth Crocker of District Four Health Services is a firm believer in the AIM for 10,000 Steps program. She participated last year and lost 100 pounds over a nine-month period, and she plans to join the program again this year.
“Exercise has truly changed my life,” says Ms. Crocker. “It has not only changed my physical appearance but my self-esteem as well. I start every day out with a three- to four-mile aerobic walk. It increases my metabolism and helps to handle the stress that everyday life places on me. I feel great!”
To learn more about the 10,000 Steps program, please call West Georgia Health System at (706) 845-3185. |