Please note: this is an old article
It was published in August 2011, so the information may be out-of-date.
Greater Shepparton City Council is encouraging businesses, sporting, schools and community groups to enter teams in the 2011 pedometer challenge. The challenge is open to all ages and abilities and individual entries are welcome.
The challenge will run throughout October, with each participant counting their number of steps each day.
Greater Shepparton City Council's Leisure Facilities Officer Belinda Conna said Council is asking workplaces/community groups to nominate teams to participate in the challenge to compete against other workplaces and community groups.
"The challenge is a fantastic way to get active and encourage friendly competition amongst colleagues," Ms Conna said.
"Walking is one of the cheapest, easiest and most achievable activities that people can do at a time they chose.
"This year, we have introduced the athlete competition, which gives people an extra challenge. Participants competing individually or as part of a team who nominate themselves as an athlete will be placed into the athlete competition to compete amongst other athletes".
For adults the daily recommendation for physical activity is 30 minutes of moderate physical activity or 10,000 steps. Physical inactivity is the second most modifiable risk factor that contributes to disease, morbidity and mortality in Australia. The benefits of physical activity for your workplace and your employees are numerous:
- Improves social connectedness and is a great team building activity
- Boosts energy levels and improves mood
- Reduces risk of chronic diseases
- Reduces stress and tension
- Improves sleep and circulation
- Increased job satisfaction and productivity
Workplaces can enter as many teams as they like, with four to six people in each team. Each team will need to assign a team leader who will coordinate team activities and enter the weekly results.
Participants have the opportunity to support Zaidee's Rainbow Foundation and prizes will be awarded throughout the challenge including a prize for most creative name.
Pedometers will be available for collection from Wednesday 28 to Friday 30 September 2011 at Council's Welsford Street office.
To register, visit the On the Moove website, registrations close Friday 23 September 2011.
For more information contact Council's Leisure Facilities Branch on (03) 5832 9700.
- Released 30 August 2011