Walk Across Tennessee Kicks Off At Red Apple Day

Being physically active is one of the best things you can do to improve and maintain your health, yet nearly two-thirds of Americans aren’t getting the activity they need.

Consider taking up walking with friends or your family by participating in Walk Across Tennesee, which is a 5-week program that will spark some friendly competitions in Cannon County.  Teams of five will compete to see who can log the most miles walking, jogging, or even biking in their community.

 The kickoff for Cannon County is Saturday, August 6 at the Red Apple Day 5K in Auburntown.  

“Teams will keep track of their miles, which will be posted in the Extension office and other places around the community, “said Carla Bush, Cannon Extension Agent.

Many people are unaware of the positive benefits of exercise.  According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the No. 1 problem in the United States.  The risk of heart disease could be significantly reduced by regular exercise.

According to the Center for Disease Control, the positive effects of physical activity are not limited to lowering the risk of heart disease.

Not only does regular exercise help relieve stress and anxiety, “physically active people outlive inactive people.” Participating in the Walk Across Tennessee is not only a great way to get involved with our community, it’s a healthy habit,’ Carla Bush stated.

To participate in Walk Across Tennessee, first get a team together.  Choose a team captain and name your team.  Fill out a registration form available at the UT Extension, Cannon County Office, 614 Lehman Street, Woodbury.

“Competition kicks off at the Red Apple Days 5K, Saturday, August 6,” Carla Bush said.   “Come out and plan to have lots of fun.”

For more information, call the Extension office at 615-563-2554 or email Carla Bush at cybush@utk.edu or Erin Nichols at eanichol@utk.edu.