Several buildings have maps and each has a doodle poll for scheduling lunch time walks with co-workers. See who else is walking - join groups or create your own on a schedule that works for you! The Walking Program is a collaborative effort and your participation is key to it's success.
All walkers should remember to:
- Schedule your walks and do your best to be on time and stick to the schedule, weather permitting.
- Welcome, motivate and support your fellow walkers. Introduce new walkers to the group.
- Buddy up with others of similar walking pace. This is not a race. Walk as slow or as fast as you feel comfortable.
- Start walking gradually. Always warm up, stretch and cool down. Drink plenty of water. Avoid participating if you are unwell or injured. Be observant of hazards and people’s well-being.
- Protect yourself from the sun with appropriate clothing, sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
Walking and Health
According to a Nassau County Department of Health Survey, nearly 55% of Nassau County residents do not engage in recommended levels of physical activity.
Regular physical activity substantially reduces the risk of dying of coronary heart disease, the nation's leading cause of death, and decreases the risk of stroke, colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also helps to control weight; contributes to healthy bones, muscles, and joints; reduces falls among older adults; helps to relieve the pain of arthritis; reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression; and is associated with fewer hospitalizations, physician visits, and medications.
It’s time to take action in the workplace where the majority of people’s time is spent. An American Heart Association survey reveals that adult Americans are 76 percent more likely to walk if someone else is counting on them. In addition, walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity. Walking with a partner is one of the most effective ways to stay committed to physical fitness via a walking program. Coworkers can build bonds by walking in groups, or they can just enjoy some solo time walking alone. |
Walking Program Survey Results
The Healthy Nassau Employee Walking Program Survey was a survey of Nassau County employees using the online survey website called Surveymonkey. The survey was conducted between 8/17/09 and 8/31/09. Of the approximately 8,800 county employees, 727 responded for a response rate of 8.3%. The following describes highlights from the results:
- 80% of county employees walk on a regular basis - at least once per week.
- 40% walk during lunch time
- 63% (448 employees) indicated they would walk with co-workers during lunch at least sometimes
- 23% (152 employees) indicated they would volunteer in support of the walking program
- 135 employees provided suggestions
Click here for detailed survey results |
The ten buildings were selected because our survey indicated they all had several employees interested in participating. If you would like to see your building added or if you have suggestions, please send an email to healthynassau@nassaucountyny.gov.
Participation in the HealthyNassauWalking Program is not compelled or required by Nassau County; is unrelated to your Nassau County employment; and is outside of the scope of your employment duties.You are participating on your own break time and are not receiving compensation for your participation in this activity. You agree to assume all risksassociated withthe Walking Program and do not have a health or medical condition that would affect your ability to safely participate in the Walking Program.
