FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Laurie Eldridge-Auffant, Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)
(334) 206-5651
CONTACT: Phil Holmes, Governor's Commission on Physical Fitness & Sports
(205) 607-0504
CONTACT: Deborah Taylor, State Employees Insurance Board
(334) 263-8450
CONTACT: Dean Kelly, ASF Foundation
(334) 440-8072
CONTACT: Koko Mackin, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
(205) 220-2713
The annual Employee Health & Fitness Walk is teaming up with National Walk @ Lunch Day in 2019. The event will be held at the State Capitol on Friday, May 3.
“Getting regular physical activity can improve your health and mood. Walking during breaks and lunch is a great way to fit in the recommended 30 minutes of aerobic activity every day. Many of us live busy lives, and this event at the Capitol reminds us that not only can this be done, but we can find opportunities to be more physically active if we look for them,” Laurie Eldridge-Auffant, Alabama Disability and Health Program Director, ADPH, said.
This day promotes awareness of the benefits of physical activity and improving overall employee health and wellness. This noncompetitive event will include a one-mile “Fun Walk” around the State Capitol and will offer multiple start times. Scheduled walks will begin and end at the Avenue of Flags on the south lawn of the Capitol at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Visits with vendors to share health and fitness information are available from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Snacks and drinks will be available at the finish line after each scheduled walk. Door prizes will be drawn after the event, and participants do not need to be present to win.
Phil Holmes, Governor's Commission on Physical Fitness & Sports, said, "It is proven that starting or maintaining a daily walking routine helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol as well as improving your energy level, mood and stress levels. Walking is fun and easy; ask your family, friends or coworkers to join you on daily walks. We hope you join us this Friday to visit with health and fitness vendors and a walk around the Capitol."
This event is sponsored by the ADPH, Governor's Commission on Physical Fitness and Sports, ASF Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, and the State Employees’ Insurance Board.
Register for the walk at adph.org/Extranet/Forms/Form.asp?formID=7546.
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.