CHAMPION- Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Accept the challenge to walk like a champion all year, but especially during May. May is National Walking Month.
You can start by participating in the Boot Camp Step It Up 5K Challenge. The Step It Up 5K Challenge is an activity of the CHAMPION program that invites you to engage in at least 30 minutes of walking each day. Walking offers low to high-impact movement and is still one of the easier forms of physical activity. Walking is healthy for your joints and can be an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages. You can also learn to take your mind off daily challenges by using simple mindful walking techniques.

April is National Stress Awareness Month.

Everyone experiences stress from time to time, so learning coping mechanisms that work for you can help improve your daily life. Here are some examples of things you can do when life feels overwhelming:
• Exercise
• Write your feelings in a journal
• Avoid drinking excess caffeine
• Make sure you're getting enough sleep
• Talk it out with someone you trust

For more information, check out these resources:

National Institute of Mental Health, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheet

National Institute of Mental Health, 2024 https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

Tierney Donnell
Urban Regional Extension Agent
[email protected]

Accept the challenge to be a CHAMPION for your health one-step at a time by participating in the CHAMPION Challenge, aim for 10,000 steps!
📸 Snap a picture of you walking and post it .
Helpful Tips:
🚶‍♀️Layout waking shoes and clothes the night before
⏰Set an alarm
🎧Create a music playlist, audiobook or podcast
📞Communicate with your accountability partner and discuss a walking plan
👟Track your steps via phone apps, smart watch or pedometer