Health First Health Plans Medicare Advantage Members Take Healthy Steps at Walk It Out in Viera

Health First Health Plans Medicare Advantage Members Take Healthy Steps at Walk It Out

The Medicare Advantage member event at ProHealth & Fitness in Viera showed how walking improves fitness, lowers stress, and builds community.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — It may have been another sweltering August morning in Florida, but Health First Health Plans Medicare Advantage members found a refreshing way to stay active — and social — without breaking a sweat in the heat.

Inside Health First’s ProHealth & Fitness Center in Viera, sneakers hit the indoor track as members kicked off Walk It Out, a wellness-focused event designed to prove that exercise doesn’t have to be intimidating — or outdoors.

The premise was simple but motivating: 10 laps around the air-conditioned facility on the track equaled one mile. Medicare Advantage members stretched, warmed up with trainers, and set out together at their own pace.

For many, the indoor walk was a welcome break from Florida’s relentless summer sun, and for all, it was a reminder that a body in motion really does stay in motion.

“It’s nice and cool inside. There’s plenty of room and it feels good,” said Suzanne Provost, a Health First Health Plans Medicare Advantage member who attends many of the events. “Every event pushes us a little bit, and that’s what’s good. I love coming to these.”

Health First Health Plans hosts a variety of Medicare Advantage member events throughout the year, offering activities that support both wellness and social connection. Past gatherings have ranged from movie screenings and first-aid workshops to creative activities like painting and fun fitness events such as Walk It Out at ProHealth & Fitness.

The variety, Provost said, is what keeps her coming back.

For Provost, the events are about more than physical activity. She said she enjoys the chance to try new things and has found herself returning repeatedly – even on her own.

“I think people miss out if they don’t try it,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if you come by yourself, because there’s always someone to talk to. Sitting together at tables or walking side by side, it’s always fun.”

That sense of connection is exactly what organizers had in mind. Wellness is not just physical, but also social and emotional, and events like Walk It Out create opportunities for Medicare Advantage members to bond while building healthier habits.

Provost added that she values her Health First Health Plan Medicare Advantage coverage, noting the reasonable copays and comprehensive care give her peace of mind. She said having access to quality insurance — along with member events like Walk It Out — makes a real difference in her health and lifestyle.

Walking may seem simple, but the benefits are powerful. According to Dr. Kevin Campbell, MD, FACC, MBA, of Health First Medical Group, walking is one of the most effective – and accessible – ways to improve cardiovascular health.

“Even 30 minutes a day of walking can reduce blood pressure by 5 to 10 millimeters of mercury,” Campbell explained.

“When we exercise, we indirectly impact high blood pressure by contributing to weight loss. A body in motion helps lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, which is linked to heart disease and cancer.”

Other proven benefits of regular walking include:

■ Improves circulation and promotes the development of new blood vessels and improves endothelial function (Lining of the blood vessels).

■ Enhances insulin sensitivity and can improve blood glucose levels and improve diabetes blood sugar control.

■ Helps lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and improve good (HDL) cholesterol.

■ Reducing stress, which supports both heart health and mental well-being.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week – about 20 minutes a day. That’s well within reach for most people, Campbell said, and events like Walk It Out serve as a great starting point.

“These events are vital in promoting wellness,” he said. “They not only introduce seniors to fitness in a safe, encouraging way but also create a sense of community. Exercise can be fun, and it can lead to new friendships.”

The morning wrapped up with laughter, conversation, and a bit of healthy snacking as participants cooled down. Many lingered afterward, chatting with the Health First Health Plans events team that Provost praised for their warmth and encouragement.

“The events team is great. They’re always happy and helpful, and it’s a pleasure to see them every time,” she said.

For members, walking a mile indoors may seem like a small step. But in a season where Florida’s heat often sidelines outdoor activities, it represents something bigger – a reminder that healthy living can be enjoyable, socia,l and accessible to all.

As Campbell summed up, the message is clear: “We’re all in this together and we can all help each other improve our health through exercise.”

With that spirit, Health First Health Plans Medicare Advantage members proved that a body in motion truly does stay in motion – one lap, one mile, and one event at a time.

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