Group Walk #1

We (the Walk Kansas Task Force) hosted our first group walk on Saturday, March 21 at the Northeast Community Park. The weather was tropical, unlike this weekend, with warm temperatures, a light breeze and lots of sunshine.

The trail around the park is not paved, but easy to walk on and stroller friendly. We had a good group of walkers/runners participate. Everyone just goes at their own speed - slow, fast, or inbetween - and has a good time.

If you have not been to this park before, add it to your list of places to go for a walk, run, or picnic. There is a great playground and picnic shelter, but not a lot of trees or shade - so plan to go earlier in the day to avoid the hot summer sun.

Whole Grains & Health

Everyone is talking about whole grains, but what IS a whole grain and why does it matter? Whole grains include grains like wheat, corn, rice, oats, barley, quinoa, sorghum, spelt, and rye – when these foods are eaten in their "whole" form. Whole grains are also a great source of vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting antioxidants. Join Maureen Olwenik from the American Institute of Baking (AIB) on Sunday, March 15 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Manhattan Public Library Auditorium to learn more about whole grain foods. This program is free and open to the public. Sponsored by People’s Grocery Deli

Walk Kansas Energizer

This year, with help from an amazing group of volunteers on our task force, Riley County had it's first Walk Kansas Energizer kick-off on Thursday, March 5. I think I can safely say that we got things started on the right foot. For those of you who were not able to attend or did not know about the event, we (the Riley County Walk KS Task Force) organized a variety of "mini-classes" for participants to try out new physical activities.
Classes included - Zumba, Hi/Lo Aerobics, Square Dancing, Chair Yoga, Wii Fit, and Step Aerobics. Plus we had great support from many community organizations and businesses that provided information on health, fitness and nutrition. I'd love to hear from those that attended (or didn't) your thoughts and any ideas you have or activities you would like to see offered next year.