Healthiest State Walk - Take the First Steps

posted on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 in General

Lace up your walking shoes for the Healthiest State Annual Walk! On Wednesday, Oct. 2, thousands of Iowans across the state will participate in organized walks at schools, workplaces and in their communities, including several locations within Spencer such as Spencer Hospital’s Grand Avenue Park.

Registration is free and easy: Visit IowaHealthiestState.com/Walk to sign-up as an individual or group. If you search for a walk using the Spencer zip code, 51301, you’ll see several local walks registered. Sign up for the one most convenient for you.

The Healthiest State Annual Walk started in 2011 as a call to action for Iowans to take a step in the right direction for their health. This year’s goal is to have walks registered in all 99 counties of Iowa with at least 900 total walks to celebrate the event’s ninth year.

“We want to energize all Iowans, whether you’re on an employee wellness committee or member of a neighborhood walking club, to join us for a 30-minute walk on October 2,” said Jami Haberl, executive director for the Healthiest State Initiative. “Walking is a physical activity that Iowans of all ages and abilities can enjoy together.”

Walking is not only good for your physical health, including supporting joint health and decreasing the risk of heart disease and obesity, but is also beneficial for Iowans’ mental, social and emotional wellbeing.

The theme “Walk more. Connect more.” encourages Iowans to walk with friends, family members, classmates and co-workers in order to foster relationships and leverage those additional health benefits.