City of Melbourne employees collectively “walked” the equivalent of 12,177 miles this summer — beating the city’s “Walk 9,732 miles to Melbourne, Australia” fitness challenge by 2,445 miles. (City of Melbourne image)
BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – City of Melbourne employees collectively “walked” the equivalent of 12,177 miles this summer — beating the city’s “Walk 9,732 miles to Melbourne, Australia” fitness challenge by 2,445 miles.
Between June 1 and September 7, city employees tracked miles they walked or ran using an online tool provided by the American Heart Association.
Employees also used the tracker to calculate “steps” or the benefits that activities like house cleaning, climbing stairs, basketball or yoga provide.
“Working out can have positive effects far beyond the gym (and beach season),” said Ron Bougher, Employee Health Nurse for the City of Melbourne.
“Gaining self-confidence, getting out of a funk, and even thinking smarter are some of the motivations to take time for exercise on a regular basis.”
The challenge was part of the city’s new Wellness Program, which promotes exercise and healthy eating through regular communications and organized fitness activities.
City of Melbourne employee teams will participate in upcoming local events, such as the American Heart Walk at Space Coast Stadium on September 19.
“Since the challenge began, several employees have expressed more interest and motivation in personal fitness, saying that they have more energy, are losing weight and have more self-confidence,” Bougher said.
“Now that we have completed our walking trek we will begin forming employee teams and participating in upcoming local events, such as the American Heart Walk at Space Coast Stadium on September 19.”
