ELYSBURG - A program designed to help girls and women get healthier has started a new season.
Steppin' Out is a 12-week walk/jog/run program, initiated in 2010, to engage women ages 12 and older to become more fit and motivated to achieve healthy goals.
Participants set out Tuesday, and over the next three months, will be guided through a series of steps built on core principles and techniques. Participants will learn how to properly warm up and will engage in mentor-led workouts tailored for walkers, joggers and runners. They will also receive support to achieve personal goals. Mentors maximize group dynamics, work out with participants and provide essential training and health information. They also provide resources, encouragement, water, nutritional snacks and hydration samples, water bottles and guidance.
At the onset of the program, each participant received a welcome packet that includes program information, a progressive 12-week workout schedule, workout log sheets and a schedule of events such as guest speakers and a 5K walk/run. This year, all participants will have an opportunity to take part in a women's health screening provided through Geisinger Medical Center. Speakers will include ACTION Health, Phoenix Rehabilitation and Central Penn Physical Therapy.
Ready for a 5K
Upon completion of the 12-week Steppin' Out program, all participants will have the base level of fitness to complete a 5K walk/run and are invited to complete a post-program 5K with Steppin' Out mentors to coach them to the finish line.
During the inaugural Steppin' Out season, more than 45 women and girls completed a 5K and more than 34 report continued efforts to achieve advanced goals for racing and involvement of further community fitness events.
Those who complete at least eight of 12 sessions will receive a T-shirt and a success certificate during an end-of-session celebratory ceremony. The invitation to celebrate is extended to every participant, supporter, speaker and sponsor to offer tribute to participants achieving their personal goals and celebrating personal success.
The summer session of Steppin' Out starts at 6 p.m. every Tuesday at the Elysburg Community Park for 12 weeks. Registration is $25. For more information, contact Cindy Wedde at 350-4964 or email her at steppinoutwalkrun@gmail.com.