According to Kentucky County Healthcare Profiles:  County Health Indicators from 2014, 15.8% of the adult population of Breathitt County has diabetes and 30.9% of the adult population is obese. Because physical activity is linked to better management of chronic diseases and lowering obesity rates, it is very important that Breathitt County citizens, particularly the mentioned populations, have access and motivation to participate in physical activities.

Breathitt County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Kayla Watts, in partnership with the Breathitt County Public Library, hosted a 4-week FitBlue, on-line based team walking program where participants learned the importance of healthy diet and exercise.  Too, participants were given encouraged to walk during the program time and also given the opportunity to track their weekly steps. 

Approximately 97 Breathitt County citizens, (25 teams) participated in the 4-week program where they tracked steps, incorporated more physical activity into daily living and practiced making healthier eating choices. The total steps taken by all those participating citizens was 13,901 miles!  

Evaluations, completed by participants, showed that 99% of participants had an increase of knowledge and awareness related to diet and exercise needs based on their gender/activity level/age.  Also, 99% of participants indicated that they planned to continue regular physical activities such as walking.  One participant stated, “I will continue to exercise.  This program was a great motivator!  I know that this makes me feel better, and helps my overall health."

Physical activity programs such as FitBlue are a great tool to teach and encourage families about making healthy lifestyle choices.  Citizens equipped with new knowledge are then able to better manage chronic diseases and weight.