Chelsea Community Hospital Offers 'Walking Wednesdays' Program in Dexter

A fitness series geared toward promoting cardiovascular health in Washtenaw County is coming to Dexter beginning in March.

The Healthy Communities Walking Program, sponsored by Chelsea Community Hospital, a series of free community walks titled “Walking Wednesdays.” Walks are scheduled to take place from March 7 to May 2, at 6 a.m., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. in Chelsea, Dexter, Grass Lake, Manchester and Stockbridge.

“People want to know when we walk,” said Sheri Montoye, community representative for the Healthy Communities Walking Program. “I meet potential walkers who really do want to get healthy and connect with others. Weekly walks can help people do just that.”  

A kick-off meeting will take placeat 11:30 a.m. March 3 at the Dexter District Library. During the meeting, representatives will give away door prizes, review walking routes, discuss safety precautions and introduce a walk/run 5K training program, and enroll interested persons in the 12-month Healthy Communities Walking Program.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults should have at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week in increments of at least 10 minutes throughout the week.

“If participants of ‘Walking Wednesdays' can fit in two or three other walks each week, they’ll be on target to meet the recommended guidelines," Montoye said.

The Healthy Communities Walking Program is designed to motivate and support people who are working to improve their health. Walks are generally done on your own schedule at your own pace, with optional group walks offered to meet others, check-in with a point person, and receive encouragement.

Participants who register for the free program will receive a pedometer and walking-related resources.

Participants in Dexter will meet Wednesdays at the Dexter High School outdoor track entrance. For more information on “Walking Wednesday” spots, visit the website, www.cch.org/healthycommunities, or call 734-475-6121.