Walk Kansas

The annual eight-week fitness challenge encourages teams of six to compile miles equivalent to walking the 423 miles across the state of Kansas.   Though introduced as a walking program 10 years ago, the challenge has grown to also include other exercise, such as swimming, biking, playing team sports and pushing a lawnmower.  Walk Kansas typically draws about 20,000 participants, with representatives from almost all of Kansas’ 105 counties.  Previous participants have reported benefits such as increased energy, greater muscle strength, a more optimistic outlook, improved stress management, more peaceful sleep, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol.  The team approach is a motivating factor, and Walk Kansas has become popular with families, friends, neighbors, and as worksite wellness activity.  The cost to participate, which usually is $10 or less, varies with Extension offices, and covers a weekly participant newsletter with health and physical activity tips, healthy eating recommendations, and recipes. More information is available at local Extension offices throughout the state.