Get Physical

Why is exercise important?

In Sedgwick County, 38 percent of adults are overweight and 24 percent are obese; while 16 percent of our children and young adults are overweight. Obesity is a pandemic affecting all Americans either directly or indirectly; it is costly to our bodies and our bottom lines. Read more about obesity in Sedgwick County in the Data Book.

The recommended amount of physical activity is at least 30 minutes of moderate activity five or more times per week. Only 32 percent of Sedgwick County adults get the recommended amount of physical activity.

What are the benefits?

Read about the benefits of physical activity (hint: there are many more than just looking good in a bathing suit, as if that weren't enough!).

What counts as exercise?

• “Vigorous” exercise includes activities like jogging, running, fast cycling, aerobic classes, swimming laps, singles tennis and racquetball. These activities usually increase your heart rate, make you sweat and may cause you to breath faster or with more effort.
• “Moderate” exercise includes activities such as brisk walking, gardening, slow cycling, dancing, doubles tennis or hard work around the house.

How can I move more?

Overcome the Barriers

Many personal variables affect our plans to become more physically active. Some include not having enough time to exercise, lack self-motivation, or finding exercise boring. Some people fear being injured or lack encouragement, support or companionship from family and friends.

The Barriers to Being Active Quiz can help you identify the types of physical activity barriers that are undermining your ability to make regular physical activity an integral part of your life.

• Begin by choosing physical activities you enjoy.
• Gradually build up the time spent doing the activity by adding a few minutes every few days until you can comfortably perform a minimum recommended amount of activity (30 minutes per day).
• As the minimum amount becomes easier, gradually increase either the length of time performing an activity, or increase the intensity of the activity, or both.
• Vary your activities both for interest and to broaden the range of benefits.
• Engage in moderate-intensity physical activities at least 30 minutes five or more days of the week.
• Make sure to do at least 10 minutes of activity at a time. For example, you can take 3-10 minute brisk walks at a time.
• Explore new physical activities. Read a list of 55 activities you can try.
• Get the kids involved!

Walk!

Waking is free (after purchase of a pair of walking/running shoes) and you can do it almost anywhere and anytime. Here are some places to walk in Sedgwick County:

• Walking Program at the Sedgwick County Zoo
• Sedgwick County Park
• Lake Afton Park
• Walking Trails
• Use Map My Walk or Map My Run to map your own route near your house or workplace
• Walk at Work - walk for a few minutes on your break or lunch hour, or ask your boss to have a walking meeting with you.

Count Your Steps

Wear a pedometer and try to get 10,000 steps a day. Use this chart to convert your activities to steps!