MWC

News release

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 eight-week Get Moving 150 Challenge beginning on Sunday, April 15. 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. During this challenge, emphasis will be placed on reaching at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week as recommended by the Department of Health and Human Services, American Heart Association, and other healthcare organizations.

Because social support greatly increases the time spent and the enjoyment of physical activity, a buddy system or team participation is highly encouraged. New for this challenge, there will be a series of scavenger hunt group walks on trails in Danville/Boyle County. These will take place on Sundays at 4 p.m. and there will be special prizes for those who complete six walks.

 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 providing 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. 

Join us for the kick-off event at the Highway 2168 trailhead near Danville Christian Academy at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 15. This will be the first in our series of scavenger hunt group walks.

Registration forms are available at McDowell Wellness Center, Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center, Ephraim McDowell James B. Haggin Hospital and Ephraim McDowell Fort Logan Hospital information desks, Danville Bike and Footwear, Hibbett Sports, Bunny Davis Recreation Complex and on the McDowell Wellness Center website www.mcdowellwellness.com.  You can register now through April 22. Get Moving Packets with instructions, logs, etc. will be available beginning April 1 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.