Strive to stride! Take the HAWC Walk path to success

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Walking is a form of transportation, but for some it is actually a sport. A record number of more than 40 million people are fitness walkers in the U.S. and the numbers are increasing, according to Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association.

This may come as a surprise to some people, but there are different types of walking - for fitness, sport and just for fun!

The specialists at the 436th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Health and Wellness Center have created the HAWC Walk for Team Dover members to get exercising, now through October.

Starting at 11 a.m. every Wednesday at the Family Camp across from the Eagles Nest Picnic Area, anyone wanting to exercise by running or walking three miles during the lunch break can join the HAWC Walk.

"Doing the HAWC Walk breaks up your day, gives you vitamin D from the sun and can help you mentally refocus on the job," said Kate Jennings, 436th AMDS HAWC registered dietitian and nutrition program manager.

There are many benefits to joining the HAWC Walk that include exercise and prizes.

"Walkers who complete a certain number of steps are given pedometers as a gift. Throughout the program, HAWC walkers are given prizes related to their commitment such as food gift certificates and more," said Nancy Zabaga, 436th AMDS HAWC Health Education Program Manager.

Mrs. Zabaga says they have regular walkers who come year after year because they know the great benefits of exercising during lunch.

"At the end of October, our walkers pride themselves in having spent the whole summer engaging in a healthy and fun activity," she said.

As for exercise benefits, John Walters, 436th AMDS HAWC fitness program manager and medical examiner for PT test exemptions, recommends Team Dover members to join the program.

"I meet with many servicemembers who cannot complete their PT test due to a particular ailment or diagnosis and I believe these exempted members can benefit a great deal while in the recovery stage to help to increase their aerobic conditioning," said Mr. Walters.

The HAWC prefers participants to register for the HAWC Walk so they can receive emails for updates of cancellation due to inclement weather.

Participants are encouraged to call the HAWC at 677-3733 to register, but walkers may also sign up upon arrival.