Obesity and being overweight is a major issue the people in Bell County struggle with daily. Lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyles are the leading cause for this growing problem. To help address this issue, “Fall” Into Walking, was started by the Cooperative Extension Service. Emphasis is on becoming more active by finding activities to help get people moving and off the couch. Twenty-One participants walked, jogged, danced or biked their way to a more active lifestyle. Each person logged their physical activity miles (15 minutes of sustained activity) for eight weeks. A total of  4,257 physical activity miles were recorded at the end of program.

     Once program concluded, evaluations were completed by participants, 90% stated that the program helped increase their physical activity levels and one or more health indicators had improved (blood pressure and cholesterol). 95% plan to still get 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week after the program is over. One individual stated that because of walking program she feels and sleeps better.  Another walker stated “I am happy my cholesterol went down 20 points and my weight, blood sugar and blood pressure have improved.”