Walk Across Tennessee gets under way

Through a modest increase in daily activity, most Americans can improve their health. Walk Across Tennessee is a program that persuades and motivates people of all ages to make that most important change? to get started or to re-energize current walkers. It is a program that is simple, inexpensive and safe. All you need is a team of five people and a desire to get moving.

It’s simple. Walk Across Tennessee is an 8-week walking program for the five-member teams. The teams will have a friendly competition to see who can log the most miles walked and/or pounds lost. Those miles will be recorded at the Warren County Extension Service office on a weekly basis. Teams are encouraged to check weekly so see how far they are walking in comparison to the other teams.

Teams do not actually walk together, although they may if they so desire. Teams simply pool their mileage each week to work toward the chosen destination. For example, walkers will “start” in west Memphis and “walk” toward Bristol. Prizes will be awarded to team members who walk the farthest, arrive in Nashville or Bristol first, or loses the most weight. However, all teams will take home the benefit of a very healthy habit – walking for fitness.

So, are you ready to Walk Across Tennessee? First, form a walking team of five members. Make sure you have shoes that are good for walking. Choose a team captain and pick a name for your team. Fill out individual and team registration forms.

Team captains need to turn all registration information in to the Extension office by Sept. 5. Teams will begin walking Sept. 6 and continue through Oct. 31. Team members shall keep track of the miles walked and pounds lost on a weekly basis. Team captains will also report to the extension office weekly.

A finale is scheduled Nov. 8 at Three Star Mall at 10 a.m. Awards will be presented to winning teams with all teams being recognized for their efforts.

So dust off your shoes, gather a few friends, co-workers or family members and Walk Across Tennessee. Let walking become a healthy habit for you. Registration information is available from Hilda Lytle at the Warren County Extension Office and Amanda Jones at the Warren County Health Department.