Statewide Iowa — This Wednesday, October 2nd, thousands of Iowans across the state will participate in organized walks at schools, workplaces and in their communities.
Called the “Healthiest State Annual Walk,” the event is presented by Delta Dental of Iowa, and several walks are planned right here in northwest Iowa.
Jami Haberl, the executive director for the Healthiest State Initiative says that they want to energize all Iowans, whether you’re on an employee wellness committee or member of a neighborhood walking club, to join them for a 30-minute walk on October 2nd. She says that walking is a physical activity that Iowans of all ages and abilities can enjoy together.
Haberl says that 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.
The Healthiest State Annual Walk also acts as a kick-off event for Healthiest State Month celebrating 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! across the state. Iowans are encouraged to keep practicing healthy habits, including physical activity, throughout October.
In our area, the Sibley Striders will walk at Central Park in Sibley. The “Go Generals” and the “Generals’ Pride” group will have their own walks. Groups from Cain Ellsworth, Northwest Iowa Community College, and East Elementary will walk in Sheldon. A group called “Two by Two” will walk in Primghar. There’s a Sioux Center Community and Business Walk in that community. A group called “Spartan Walkers” will walk in Alton. A group called “Healthy Hull” will walk there. A group from Boyden-Hull Elementary will walk in Boyden. And a group called “Walkin’ Rocky” will walk on the Island Park Trails in Rock Rapids.
KIWA file photo
