MIDLAND, Mich., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Enhancement Systems' new Walktober (http://www.walktober.com/ ) walking campaign has gone beyond initial projections for the first year. More than 150 organizations have already signed on to help employees, members, patients, and clients improve their health in October. "We're overwhelmed with the response," notes Dean Witherspoon, President of Health Enhancement Systems. "We have corporations, hospitals, health departments, YMCAs/YWCAs, fitness clubs, universities, health plans, municipalities, and departments of state and federal government -- all preparing to implement their first Walktober campaign."
Designed to dramatically boost walking in just 31 days -- from the national average of 4000-5000 to 8000-10,000 steps a day -- Walktober inspires participants to make walking a priority in October and beyond. "Walking is the one activity almost everyone can do. It requires no special equipment... all a person needs is a comfortable pair of shoes," comments Witherspoon.
Dramatic results
The idea for a single month to highlight walking grew out of research showing consistent walks produce outstanding health benefits, such as:
* Better weight control * Emotional/psychological boost * Decreased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers * Enhanced mental alertness * Better sleep
October's crisp climate and vivid colors make it the ideal time to build the walking habit for gaining these advantages.
Health Enhancement Systems' publication "Walking: The Health and Economic Impact" cites 21 peer-reviewed studies that support a comprehensive walking initiative. "The data is clear," says Witherspoon. "If we can motivate people to simply double the steps they take throughout the day, and with dedicated time set aside for walking, we can dramatically improve the health of individuals and populations."
To learn how your organization can participate in Walktober, go to http://www.walktober.com/ or call 800.326.2317 (989.839.0852).
Health Enhancement Systems is a health promotion company serving organizations in North America and throughout the world. In addition to Walktober, they have created more than 20 health campaigns including 10K-A- Day, Walk This Weigh, Walks of Life, and Walkabout.
Health Enhancement SystemsCONTACT: Margaret Vink of Health Enhancement Systems, +1-989-839-0852
