2017 First Place team recieves their award
In addition to being there when people fall ill, hospitals are now more engaged than ever in helping their communities stay healthy. This increased focus on disease prevention and wellness is one big reason White Plains Hospital created the ExSteptional Walking Challenge six years ago. Not only is it a way to promote healthy lifestyles – it’s just fun!
This year’s White Plains Hospital ExSteptional Walking Challenge will wrap up on June 10. The popular six-week long competition pits five-person teams against each other to see who can rack up the highest number of steps – toning up just in time for the start of the summer season. In fact, this is the most successful year ever for the ExSteptional Challenge, with a record number of more than 1,300 participants representing nearly all areas of Westchester.
More than 550 men and women from the greater White Plains community and 775 Hospital employees – all vying for prize rewards and, more importantly, lasting health benefits. Oh yeah, and bragging rights, too!
Research shows that brief daily walks – even one mile at a brisk pace – can have a positive impact on weight control, mood, strength and balance, and overall health. Unfortunately, many of us feel that taking the time to step away from our desks and busy lives to walk the walk, so to speak, is easier said than done.
So what makes the ExSteptional Challenge such a hit, year after year? A combination of factors, says Frank LoCastro, EdD, Wellness Program Coordinator at White Plains Hospital who oversees the competition. “After a long winter when most of us spend most of our time indoors, both our bodies and our minds are craving some outdoor activity and stimulation,” he says. “It’s a time when we renew our commitment to our physical health, and enjoy any opportunity to be outside in the warmer weather.” Even better is the sense of camaraderie and teamwork that goes along with the challenge. “There are always those of us who love the competition,” he says. “But ultimately, whatever gets you moving and staying moving – keep it up!”
Lear more about this program and see where all the teams stand on the ExSteptional Challenge page.