According to Kentucky By The Numbers:  COVID-19 At Risk County Profiles, 16.8% (11.3%-24.4%) of the adult population of Breathitt County has diabetes and 36.1% (27.0%-46.3%) 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, especially during very stressful times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Breathitt County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Education, Kayla Watts, in partnership with the Breathitt County Public Library, hosted a 1-week Wander Wonder Appalachia on-line based physical activity program where participants were motivated to get outdoors and exercise.  Various distances, (5K, 10K and the like) were all options for those exercising, as were various forms of physical movement (walking, running, hiking and so forth).  Participants registered online, chose a distance to complete, and then completed a survey/distance entry form online to solidify their achievements.

Approximately 76 Breathitt County citizens, participated in the 1-week program where they tracked their distance, and incorporated more physical activity into daily living. Each participant completed either a 5K distance or a 10K distance.

One participant stated, “This program was a great motivator, especially during the fall weather, and during COVID."

Physical activity programs such as the Wander Wonder Appalachia virtual challenge are a great tools 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 even during stressful times such as COVID-19.