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“Session Stroll” Walking Challenge Promotes Healthy Living During Legislative Session

By The New Mexico Department of Health

SANTA FE, NM – As the New Mexico Legislature prepares for the start of the 2018 Legislative Session, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has organized a “Session Stroll” walking challenge encouraging its employees to be active throughout the 30-day legislative session. NMDOH extends the invitation to legislators, legislative staff, and other state agencies to participate.

Challenge participants are encouraged to log their walking activity from the opening day of the legislative session on January 16th through the end of the session on February 15th. At the close of the 30 days, individual and group/team participants will report all miles walked during the session to NMDOH. Participants are also urged to take pictures and share their walking journeys using #NMDOHSessionStroll so that a collage can be put together at the end of the challenge.

“Participating in legislative bill analysis, committee hearings, and other lawmaking activities can often mean a lot of sitting,” said Lynn Gallagher, Department of Health Cabinet Secretary. “This is an exciting way for everyone to stay motivated to stay active throughout the session and take advantage of simple opportunities to move more.”

Walking can help keep you fit and reduce your risk of serious diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and more. NMDOH reports that heart disease is the leading cause of death in New Mexico and accounts for over 20% of all deaths. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in New Mexico.

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week.

To get started all you need are comfortable clothes and supportive shoes. If you are walking outside, make sure and layer loose clothing, keeping in mind that brisk walking may elevate your body’s temperature. More walking tips are available at www.heart.org.

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