McDowell Wellness Center is collaborating with local businesses to challenge Danville/Boyle County residents to improve their health by increasing their physical activity. To do that, McDowell Wellness Center will offer a free 8-week Get Moving Challenge beginning on Saturday, Sept. 9. Participants are encouraged to increase and record their cardio-type physical activity such as walking, running, biking, swimming, and exercise classes such as Zumba and RIPPED.

Those interested can participate as an individual or as a team of four or more members. Participants will be required to submit their exercise minutes each week. All participants who submit their minutes will be eligible to win prizes in weekly random drawings and upon completion of the event. Those who submit minutes for at least seven weeks will receive a free Get Moving T-shirt. Participants will receive a weekly email newsletter that will provide useful tips, health information, recipes, etc. This will also be available in hard copy at McDowell Wellness Center.

Many local businesses have pledged their support for the Get Moving Challenge by encouraging their employees to participate and by donating prizes to be given to participants.

Studies have shown that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, arthritis and even some cancers.  Walking and exercise programs can also reduce insurance costs, increase employee productivity and promote mental well-being. 

New this fall, we will end the challenge with a 5K (3.1 mile) Race on Nov. 4 (walkers welcome). To prepare for the 5K we will offer a training program during the 8-week challenge which will include optional group runs/walks.

The kick off for the Get Moving challenge is on Sept. 9 and everyone is encouraged to join in the Constitution Run for the Arts 5K (8 a.m.) or the Smokin Butt Bike Ride (10 a.m.). Participation in these events is not required. You may register for the Get Moving Challenge and pick up your packet between 9 and 10 a.m. at Weisiger Park in front of the Boyle County Courthouse or stop by McDowell Wellness Center any time beginning Sept. 6.

Registration forms are available at McDowell Wellness Center, Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center and Ephraim McDowell Fort Logan Hospital information desks, Danville Bike and Footwear, Hibbett Sports, Bunny Davis Recreation Complex or on the McDowell Wellness Center website at www.mcdowellwellness.com. You can register now through Sept. 16. Get Moving Packets with instructions, log, etc. will be available beginning Sept. 6 at McDowell Wellness Center. Completed registration forms can be dropped off and packets picked up at McDowell Wellness Center or at the kick-off event.

For more information, contact Dee Coffey or Janet Fluty at McDowell Wellness Center at (859) 936-9355.  Businesses that are interested in donating prizes or becoming a sponsor may also contact Dee Coffey or Janet Fluty.