May 3, 2022

Kitsap Moves campaign encourages physical activity through events, education, and advocacy

Kitsap Public Health Board declares May "Kitsap Moves Month" to support physical and mental wellbeing. 

KITSAP COUNTY, WA  – Ready to get moving?

Physical activity is one of the most important things people can do to stay healthy and prevent disease. But in a 2021 survey of Kitsap residents, more than half of respondents reported being less physically active since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. County Health Rankings released last week flagged obesity rates as an area of concern for Kitsap County.

The Kitsap HEAL Coalition, Kitsap Public Health District, and partners throughout the community are working to address these trends through a campaign called Kitsap Moves. The multi-level campaign will encourage Kitsap residents to engage in healthy movement, while also advocating for workplaces, organizations, and local governments to promote physical activity whenever possible. 

On May 3, the Kitsap Public Health Board adopted a resolution acknowledging the importance of physical activity for youth and adults, and declaring May 2022 as "Kitsap Moves Month."

"We are taking a collaborative approach to make physical activity fun, easy, and rewarding," Health District Community Health Director Yolanda Fong said. "Movement is key to our physical and mental health, and it's more important than ever as we rebound from the pandemic."

LET'S MOVE TOGETHER!

Organizations throughout Kitsap County are partnering with the Kitsap Moves campaign to offer events promoting healthy movement. For example:

• The Kitsap Sun is hosting a series of Story Walks that explore local history and culture.
• The Kitsap Regional Library created a downtown Bremerton walking club. 
• Kitsap Public Health District's Parent-Child Health program formed a Mama Moves Kitsap group for parents of babies and tots. 

Visit the Kitsap Moves webpage for a full list of upcoming events (updated frequently) and resources to help you get motivated. You can also follow the campaign on Instagram and Facebook. 

Not ready to join an event or group? No problem! Kitsap Moves encourages residents to engage in physical activity in any way that works for them. Here are tips for getting started. 

THE BENEFITS OF BEING ACTIVE

According to the CDC, staying physically active is one of the most important things people can do to stay healthy.  Even brief periods of physical activity can have immediate health benefits, such better sleep, reduced anxiety, and lower blood pressure. Regular physical activity can provide enormous long-term benefits, from reduced risk of dementia, to improved heart health, healthier weight, and lower disease risk.  The CDC recommends adults ages 18-64 engage in at least 2.5 hours of moderately intense physical activity each week, such as brisk walking, as well as two days with activities that strengthen muscles.   Learn more about physical activity recommendations for different groups. And remember: even a little movement is better than no movement!

QUESTIONS? Contact: pio@kitspapublichealth.org