Walkers Log Nearly 6,000 Miles in 10 Weeks
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-06-19 15:29:57.484672-04:00
Ramon Smith might not move very fast, but the more than 70 miles he logged during the 10-week AARP Step Up to Better Health program served as an inspiration to the other participants, who collectively walked nearly 6,000 miles.
Smith, a resident of St. Albans, uses a walker to help him get around after having both a knee and hip replacement. But he isn't about to let his artificial joints and health problems keep him inactive. He was one of more than 100 people who recognized the benefits of walking and joined the Step Up to Better Health program in March. When he couldn't get outside, he would go to the Hansford Senior Center and walk laps in the hallways to keep fit.
More than 50 participants regularly logged their steps during AARP West Virginia's Step Up to Better Health program this spring.
May 22 marked the 10th week of the program at Hansford Senior Center in St. Albans. More than 100 people registered for the event at a health fair in March, with between 50 and 60 people attending the weekly sessions on nutrition, exercise, stroke prevention and other topics. Fifty-five people dutifully logged their weekly steps, walking a total of 5,890 miles. Seven dedicated walkers logged more than 200 miles each.
During the program, walkers who increased their activity received prizes and incentives. At the May 22 "graduation" ceremony, participants received pins and certificates presented by AARP West Virginia State Director Frank Bellinetti and Bob Perelman, a member of West Virginia's Executive Council.
Dorothy Wilkinson was another big winner. At the beginning of the program, she walked a mile a week. By the end of the program, she was up to nearly a mile a day, an improvement of over 600 percent.
Dedicated walker Virginia Veltri logged the most miles of all participants, hoofing 318 miles during the 10 weeks.
For information on sponsoring a Step Up to Better Health program in your community, send an email or call (304)340-4605.
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