 |
Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness555 Walnut, Suite 203 Abilene, Texas 79601P.O. Box 60, Abilene, Texas 79604 Phone: 325-676-6206 Fax: 325-676-6229 E-mail: mayorscouncil.physicalfitness@abilenetx.com |
The Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness was established in March 2008 by Mayor Norm Archibald. It was formed to help build a healthier community. The Mayor's Council assists in the development and support of ongoing physical fitness programs, annual fitness campaigns, and educational outreach that are designed to meet the fitness and wellness needs of the community.
Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness is on Facebook
Mayor's Hike Along Cedar Creek May 5, 2012
Saturday, May 5, 2012, approximately 60 hikers (and one dog) joined Mayor Archibald for a hike along Cedar Creek.
Winners/Photos Mayor's 5K April 14, 2012
Click here to view 2012 Mayor's 5K winners and race photos
Upcoming Events
Any time: Random Acts of Fitness
If you're out walking or doing some form of physical activity in the community, you may become the recipient of a random act of fitness. Members of the Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness are giving out free t-shirts at random to residents who are "caught in the act" of physical fitness.
Next Meeting
4:00 p.m., May 9, 2012, 555 Walnut Street, City Hall Basement Conference Room.
Requesting Support from the Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness
Click here for information regarding Guidelines for Support from the Mayor's Council.
Click here for an Application for Support from Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness.
Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness Leadership Award
If there is either an individual or event/organization that you would like to nominate for recognition for their contributions toward promoting physical fitness, click here for the nomination form.
Fitness Tips
Click here for training programs: Runner or Non-Runner
Bill Horn, who is a Mayor's Council member, Road Runner Club of America (RRCA) certified running coach and past president of the Abilene Runners Club, developed the 5 week program. He said it's designed to help a person finish the 5K "happy, healthy and injury-free". Horn explained that the pace a person should run is determined by what he terms the "Talk Test". That is if they can jog and carry on a conversation with a friend, they are doing well. If they are not relaxed enough to talk, they are running too fast. He emphasized that the race day running should be an extension of what they've been doing for the previous four weeks. If they watch their pace (Talk Test) and follow the walk/jog ratios from start to finish, they should have no problem finishing the Mayor's Round-Up.
For a specific question(s), you are welcome to e-mail Bill at coachbillhorn@gmail.com.
You can also view the training tips at www.youtube.com/AbileneTelevision.
*Before starting any new fitness/training program, consult with your physician first.*
News Releases
October 2011
“Abilene on the Move” is a day to get moving
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness invites citizens to take 12 minutes towards a healthier lifestyle by participating in “Abilene on the Move” day on Wednesday, October 12, 2011. It is a day for families, individuals, groups, businesses and schools to take part in an activity that gets people moving.
Planned activities include: City of Abilene employees joining Mayor Norm Archibald in a 12 minute walk at 10 a.m. from City Hall and the Abilene Independent School District holding walking events at various times at participating schools.
Make October 12 a Day On the Move by:
- Walking the track at a local park
- Taking a 12-minute walk during break time or lunch with a friend or co-worker
- Walking around your neighborhood
- Joining your child at the school track during his/her PE period
Schools and businesses are encouraged to organize an activity. Some fun examples:
- Take a 12 minute walking break on Oct. 12 at 10 a.m.
- Challenge your co-workers and/or departments to step out on the Oct. 12 and walk the block around your worksite
- Schools: Make Oct. 12 your wellness day in PE. Invite parents and teachers to join students in walking the track during their PE class.
If 10 a.m. is not a convenient time to walk, individuals, businesses and schools are encouraged to schedule a time when it best fits into their day.
March 2011
Mayor Archibald to recognize local fitness leader
ABILENE, Texas – Mayor Norm Archibald will recognize local fitness advocate Chris Kyker for her commitment to physical fitness in Abilene, Texas at the March 24, 2011 City Council meeting.
“Mrs. Kyker has played a pivotal role in promoting life-long fitness at the state and local level. She is literally a "mover and shaker" as a health promoter through physical activity,” said Dennis O’Connell, Chairman of the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness. “She is an exemplary volunteer and we are blessed to have experienced the benefits of her dedicated service to Abilene.”
Kyker boasts a range of talents and experience including being the recipient of the Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award by Governor Rick Perry for her years of advocacy in the Silver-Haired Legislature. She has also volunteered for 32 community agencies, been named Outstanding Alumnus of the Year by Abilene Christian University and is also the founding executive director of the Texas Department of Aging.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness board are: Dennis O’Connell (Chair), Bill Horn (Vice-Chair), Pug Parris, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Deonna Shake, Ron Richert, Kris Dawson and Cheryl Edgar.
The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness was established in 2007 by Mayor Norm Archibald to promote physical fitness within the City of Abilene.
September 2010
“Abilene on the Move” is a day to get moving
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness invites citizens to take 10 minutes towards a healthier lifestyle by participating in “Abilene on the Move” day on Friday, Sept. 10, 2010. It is a day for families, individuals, groups, businesses and schools to take part in an activity that gets people moving.
Planned activities include: City of Abilene employees joining Mayor Norm Archibald in a 10 minute walk at 10:00 a.m. from City Hall, McMurry University and Hardin-Simmons University students and faculty participating by walking on their campus for 10 minutes at 10:00 a.m. and the Abilene Independent School District holding walking events at various times at participating schools.
Make September STEPtember by:
- Walking the track at a local park
- Taking a 10-minute walk during break time or lunch with a friend or co-worker
- Walking around your neighborhood
- Joining your child at the school track during his/her PE period
Schools and businesses are encouraged to organize an activity. Some fun examples:
- Take a 10 minute walking break on the 10th at 10 a.m.
- Challenge your co-workers and/or departments to step out on the 10th and walk the block around your worksite
- Schools: Make September 10 your wellness day in PE. Invite parents and teachers to join students in walking the track during their PE class.
If 10 a.m. is not a convenient time to walk, businesses and schools are encouraged to schedule a time when it best fits into their day.
August 2010
Friends of Fitness Day is Aug. 13, brought to you by the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness
ABILENE, Texas – Get your heart rate up with a fun workout as part of Friends of Fitness Day on Friday, Aug. 13, 2010. That morning, the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is hosting an exercise conditioning workout from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. on the McMurry University football field, located at 14th Street and Sayles Boulevard. Citizens of all ages are invited to attend the free workout which is geared for all fitness levels.
“Come join us for Friends of Fitness Day and see how much fun you can have working out,” said Kris Dawson, Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness board member. “Living a fit lifestyle doesn’t have to be boring or feel like a chore. Experience fitness as I do and find out how it can make a positive difference in your life.”
Friends of Fitness Day is this month’s Favorite Fitness Activity of the Month (FFAM). FFAMs are sponsored nearly every month by this City of Abilene board.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness are: Dr. Dennis O’Connell (Chair), Bill Horn (Vice-Chair), Kris Dawson, Cheryl Edgar, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Dr. Dan Munton, Dr. Pug Parris (Former Chair), Ron Richert and Deonna Shake.
For other fitness activities in Abilene, go online to www.MyFitnessAbilene.com.
April 2010
A record turnout for Mayor’s 5K Run/Walk/Wheel
ABILENE, Texas – The 7th annual Mayor’s 5K Run/Walk/Wheel had record attendance with a total of 603 people, including Mayor Norm Archibald, participating in today’s event. 428 people took part in the 5K while 175 signed on for the 1-Mile Family Fun Run in downtown Abilene. The Mayor’s 5K kicked off at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 10, 2010 beginning and finishing at the Abilene Civic Center, 1100 N. 6th Street.
The overall male finisher is Jeremie Perry with a total running time of 17:23.0. The overall female winner is Brittany Brown with a total running time of 20:08.4. Additional race results can be found online through RunTIME Racing Services, which provided the event timing, at http://www.runtimeracingservices.com.
Organizers attribute this year’s record-setting attendance to moving the start/finish of the event from City Hall to the Abilene Civic Center, great sponsorship support and wonderful weather. Last year’s event had 422 participants which set a record for attendance at that time.
All proceeds from today’s Mayor’s 5K Run/Walk/Wheel will benefit the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness.
The Mayor's 5K Run/Walk/Wheel and Family Fun Run are sponsored by the City of Abilene, Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness, Abilene Runners Club and Junior League of Abilene's Kids in the Kitchen.
Photographs from the event will be available online by Tuesday, April 13, 2010 on the Mayor’s 5K Abilene Facebook page. Go to www.facebook.com and search for Mayor’s 5K Abilene.
February 2010
Register now for Mayor’s 5K Run/Walk/Wheel
ABILENE, Texas – Start training now if you want your best chance at beating Mayor Norm Archibald in a race to the finish line! The 7th annual Mayor’s 5K Run/Walk/Wheel and 1-mile Family Fun Run returns Saturday, April 10, 2010 with a new name and look, and even more reasons for the public to participate in this downtown Abilene event. Early registration for both the 5K and 1-mile fun run is currently underway at Abilene City Hall, 555 Walnut Street. All proceeds from the Mayor’s 5K will benefit the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness.
Formerly known as the Mayor’s Round-Up, the Mayor’s 5K will feature a closed course routed through downtown Abilene that begins and ends at the Abilene Civic Center, 1100 N. 6th Street. The 5K will be chip timed. The wheelchair event begins at 7:55 a.m. followed by the 5K run/walk at 8:00 a.m. The Family Fun Run will now take place after the 5K around 8:45 a.m. This schedule will allow 5K participants to join their families and friends in the fun run. Participation in the Family Fun Run is free but participants are asked to pre-register in order to guarantee each contestant a t-shirt.
The 5K pre-registration form and fees are due by April 2, 2010. Early registration fees are $18 for the run/walk and wheel events for adults, $10 for ages 10 to 18, free for ages 9 and below, and $40 for a family (up to 4). Late and race day fees are $23 for the 5K run/walk/wheel, $15 for children under 18 and $50 for a family up to 4.
Registration forms and additional information including the course map can be found online at the following websites: www.abilenetx.com, www.myfitnessabilene.com, www.abilenerunners.com or www.jrleagueabilene.com. You can also register by mailing in the form or dropping off the form at City Hall, 555 Walnut St., Room 101, Abilene, TX 79601.
The Mayor's 5K Run/Walk/Wheel and Family Fun Run are sponsored by the City of Abilene, Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness, Abilene Runners Club and Junior League of Abilene's Kids in the Kitchen.
For additional information, call (325) 676-6246.
December 2009
December’s favorite fitness activity of the month,
brought to you by the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness will offer hour-long, free group exercise classes on three days in December as part of the Favorite Fitness Activity of the Month program. Low impact aerobic classes, led by Janet McMurray, will be on Monday, December 7 and Wednesday, December 9 at 5:30 p.m. Pug Parris, who is also the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness Chair, will lead Salsa Aerobics on Tuesday, December 8, also at 5:30 p.m. All classes are held in room 200 of Hunt PE Center on the McMurry University campus.
Beginners are welcome. Please wear clothing that allows free movement and good tennis shoes. There is no childcare available at this site; all attendees must be able to participate. Participants will be required to sign a waiver to take part in the class.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness are: Dr. Pug Parris (Chair), Dr. Dennis O’Connell (Vice-Chair), Dr. Tanya Brice, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Bill Horn, Dr. Dan Munton, Liz Rotenberry (former Chair), Deonna Shake and Karen Stover.
For other fitness activities in Abilene, go online to www.MyFitnessAbilene.com.
October 2009
Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness promotes favorite fitness activity of the month
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is promoting a favorite fitness activity of the month. For October, it’s cycling.
“Cycling is a low-impact aerobic activity that is suitable for nearly all age groups”, said Dennis O’Connell, Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness Vice-Chair. “It doesn’t take a huge time commitment plus it helps increase muscle endurance and cardiovascular fitness. It’s a great stress reducer also.”
The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is donating water for the 2009 Wheels for Life bicycling event, which is being put on by Biketown. The event is taking place tomorrow, October 24 at Primetime Family Entertainment Center, 4541 Loop 322. Registration, which is $25/person, begins at 7:00 a.m. with a 7:30 a.m. start. For more details, go online to www.myfitnessabilene.com.
For November, the favorite fitness activity of the month is disc golf.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness are: Dr. Pug Parris (Chair), Dr. Dennis O’Connell (Vice-Chair), Dr. Tanya Brice, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Bill Horn, Dr. Dan Munton, Liz Rotenberry (former Chair), Deonna Shake and Karen Stover.
Mayor Archibald established the Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008.
Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness awarded $7,500 state grant
ABILENE, Texas – Mayor Norm Archibald announced today that the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is the recipient of a $7,500 grant from the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness. The third phase of the grant will go toward the board’s mentoring of other cities in establishing and setting up their own Mayor’s Fitness Councils.
Back in June 2008, the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness was awarded $24,000 in the grant’s first phase which was applied to the development of community wellness and fitness programs as well as to conduct a community fitness resource and needs assessment. In November 2008, the board received $56,000 in the grant’s second phase which went toward a community-wide awareness campaign to enhance access to and awareness of opportunities for physical activity within Abilene. Over the past year, the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness has sponsored more than a dozen fitness-related events and launched www.MyFitnessAbilene.com, a website that serves as a clearinghouse of fitness activities and events in the Abilene area.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness are: Pug Parris (Chair), Dennis O’Connell (Vice-Chair), Tanya Brice, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Bill Horn, Dr. Dan Munton, Liz Rotenberry (former Chair), Deonna Shake and Karen Stover.
Mayor Archibald established the Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008.
May/June 2009
The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness and CityLink promote fitness for kids through summer fun pass
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness and CityLink have partnered to promote physical activity for kids during the summer months by offering a $10 summer fun pass. This is a savings of $50 per child! The discounted bus pass is for children between the ages of 6 and 18 who provide proof of involvement in a summer activity or organization at the time of purchase.
The $10 passes are valid from June 1, 2009 through August 31, 2009 on all fixed bus routes. Passes may be purchased at the CityLink Station located at 1189 S. 2nd. The validity of the summer activity involvement will be decided at the discretion of CityLink.
Qualified activities are Stevenson and Rose Park Pools, City of Abilene recreation centers, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, day camps, summer school and more.
CityLink is Abilene’s public transit system, offering an affordable transportation alternative for passengers. CityLink’s goal is to provide this service safely, efficiently, courteously and in the most professional manner possible.
The Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness was established in March 2008 by Mayor Norm Archibald to help build a healthier community. The Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness assists in the development and support of ongoing physical fitness programs, annual fitness campaigns and educational outreach that are designed to meet the fitness and wellness needs of the community.
For more information, call CityLink at (325) 676-6609 or visit www.myfitnessabilene.com.
Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness named 2009-2010 Chair and Vice-Chair
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness named Dr. Pug Parris the Chair and Dr. Dennis O’Connell the Vice-Chair for the 2009-2010 term.
Parris has over 30 years experience in physical education with numerous awards, authorships, workshops, as well as the Samuel Taylor Fellowship for research in Physical Education, to her accreditation. She is currently Professor of Kinesiology and Program Director for the Department of Kinesiology and Health Fitness at McMurry University, Abilene, TX.
When asked about her upcoming year as Chair, Parris stated, “Mayor Archibald has shown tremendous interest and leadership in making our community one that believes in activity and has access to the ways and means to improve quality of life through fitness opportunities. Liz Rotenberry, Chair 2008-2009, initiated some wonderful projects that will benefit Abilene for years to come. It will be a pleasure to continue these early initiatives and work to create new fitness projects for Abilenians."
O’Connell, PT, Ph.D., CSCS, CEAS, FACSM is a physical therapist, exercise physiologist, certified ergonomic assessment specialist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. He has published several book chapters and scientific manuscripts on a variety of topics including strengthening in wheelchair users, submaximal aerobic exercise tests, and back extensor endurance in school children. Currently, Dr. O'Connell is a Professor and Sheldon-Lacewell Endowed Chair of Physical Therapy at Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, TX.
Parris will preside over the next Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. June 10, 2009 in the Basement Conference Room, City Hall, 555 Walnut Street.
Mayor Norm Archibald established the Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008 to help build a healthier community. The Mayor's Council assists in the development and support of ongoing physical fitness programs, annual fitness campaigns, and educational outreach that are designed to meet the fitness and wellness needs of the community.
For details about upcoming fitness events in Abilene, visit www.myfitnessabilene.com.
March/April 2009
New event at Mayor’s Round-Up features sport wheelchairs, provided by West Texas Rehabilitation Center
ABILENE, Texas – Thanks to West Texas Rehabilitation Center, the 6th annual Mayor’s Round-Up 5K Run/Walk/Wheel will have light-weight sport wheelchairs available on a first come, first serve basis for participants in the 5K Wheelchair Division. This is the first time that a wheelchair event is featured at the Mayor’s Round-Up which begins the morning of Saturday, April 18, 2009 at City Hall, 555 Walnut Street. The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness, an event sponsor, came up with idea of featuring a wheelchair race at the Mayor’s Round-Up.
"We’re interested in reaching as many people as possible for this family-friendly event,” explained Liz Rotenberry, Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness Chair. “By incorporating a wheelchair race along with a new family mile run to the annual 5K Run/Walk, we are increasing the number of ways that someone can participate. We are grateful to West Texas Rehab for donating their sport wheelchairs for the event so wheelchair-bound athletes can take part, too. We hope many Abilenians will join us for a great morning of fitness!"
The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is also sending the overall 1st place male and female 5K Mayor’s Round-Up Run/Walk runners, with their expenses paid, to the 6th annual Texas Round-Up in Austin on April 25, 2009.
Wheelchair racers, who would like to use a sport wheelchair, are advised to register early and make the request on their registration form. In addition, anyone who registers for a Mayor’s Round-Up event by April 11 is guaranteed a t-shirt, race number and participant bag. Race day registration begins at 7:30a.m. with the 5K Wheelchair Race kicking off the Mayor’s Round-Up at 8:25 a.m. followed by the chip timed 5K Run/Walk at 8:30 a.m., and the 1 Mile Family Fun Run at 8:35 a.m. Registration forms and additional information including the course map can be found online at the following websites: www.myfitnessabilene.com, www.abilenetx.com, www.abilenerunners.com or www.jrleagueabilene.com. You can also call 325-676-6246.
The Mayor's Round-Up 5K Run/Walk/Wheel and 1 mile Family Fun Run are sponsored by the City of Abilene, Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness, Abilene Runners Club and Junior League of Abilene's Kids in the Kitchen.
Registration underway for Mayor’s Round-Up 5K Run/Walk/Wheel
ABILENE, Texas – Come on out on Saturday, April 18 and see if you can outrun Mayor Norm Archibald at the 6th Annual Mayor’s Round-Up 5K Run/Walk/Wheel. This year’s event will feature a Wheelchair race and a free Fun Run for kids. Special rates for families will be included and chip timing for the 5K only. The Mayor’s Round-Up will begin at 8:25 a.m. on April 18, beginning and finishing at City Hall, 555 Walnut Street.
You can pre-register now for the Mayor’s Round-Up. See links to registration forms above. If you sign up by Saturday, April 11, fees are $18 for adults,$10 for children ages 10 - 18, and $40 for a family (up to four). Children under age 10 are free. Late registration fees will be accepted through 8:00 a.m.on the morning of the race. These fees are $23 for adults, $15 for children age 10-18. T-shirts are guaranteed for the first 250 5K participants and the first 200 Fun Run participants. Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers in seven different age groups. 1st place male and female runners will be sent to Austin for the Governors Texas Round-Up on April 25, 2009.
The event is sponsored by the City of Abilene, the Abilene Runners Club, the Junior League's Kids in the Kitchen and the Mayors Council on Physical Fitness. For more information, call 325-676-6246.
Stay tuned for more details including "5 Weeks to Your First 5K" training tips for both the non-runner and the new runner.
December 16, 2008
Fitness event sponsorships and other assistance available from Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness wants to hear from organizations that are helping improve the physical fitness of those who live in Abilene. Thanks to a state grant, the Mayor’s Council has funds available to help support fitness events and fitness/wellness outreach programs. Other types of assistance are also available.
Mayor Norm Archibald remarked, “These funds will assist us in making fitness-related activities more accessible to citizens and increase awareness of the benefits of physical activity. The Mayor’s Council has already given its support behind a number of community events, and is looking to do even more to get people active in the new year.”
To date, the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness has been a sponsor in the Balloon Fest 10K Race/1K Kids Fun Run, the Taylor-Jones-Haskell Co. Medical Alliance’s Hard Hats for Little Heads, and the exclusive sponsor of the Turkey Trot’s 1 mile fun run for kids.
“We hope to partner with more local groups and nonprofits that are spreading the fitness spirit,” said Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness chair Liz Rotenberry. “We have many methods of support available from event sponsorship to providing promotional and educational materials. We’re open to hearing about ways we can help bring the joy of fitness to Abilenians of all ages.”
November 25, 2008
Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness awarded second phase of state grant
ABILENE, Texas – Mayor Norm Archibald announced today that the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is the recipient of a $56,000 state grant from the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness. The second phase of the grant will go toward the Council’s community-wide awareness campaign to enhance access to and awareness of opportunities for physical activity within Abilene.
“This additional funding will allow the Mayor’s Council to promote awareness of wellness and fitness opportunities in Abilene,” Mayor Archibald noted. “These activities will include the creation of a website at www.myfitnessabilene.com that will serve as a clearinghouse for all local fitness activities; working with the school districts, hospitals and other organizations to increase the availability of health and fitness information as well as emphasizing physical activity to students, patients and clients; and continuing to sponsor and co-sponsor fitness-related events in the community.”
In June 2008, the Mayor’s Council was awarded $24,000 in the grant’s first phase which was applied to the development of community wellness and fitness programs as well as to conduct a community fitness resource and needs assessment.
Citizens serving on the Mayor’s Council are: Liz Rotenberry (Chair), Tanya Brice, Lisa Duncan, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Bill Horn, Chris Kyker, Dr. Ralph McClesky, Dr. Dan Munton, Dennis O’Connell, Pug Parris, Marka Riddle, Greg Ruffin, Deonna Shake and Karen Stover.
The Mayor established the Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008.
August 22, 2008
All invited to take part in "Abilene on the Move" day
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is inviting everyone in the community to take steps towards a healthier lifestyle by participating in “Abilene on the Move” day. September 10, 2008 is a day for families, individuals, businesses and schools to step out and join their fellow Abilenians in an activity that gets people moving.
Make September STEPtember by:
- Walking the track at a local park
- Taking a 15-minute walk during lunch with a friend or co-worker
- Circling your block at sunset
- Joining your child in walking the school track during his/her PE period
- Being a mall walker
Schools and businesses are encouraged to organize an activity. Some fun examples:
- Take a 10 minute walking break on the 10th at 10 a.m.
- Challenge co-workers and/or departments to step out on the 10th and walk the block around your worksite
- Schools: Make September 10 your “Wellness Wednesday” day in PE. Invite parents and teachers to join students in walking the track during their PE class.
These are just a few ways residents can participate in “Abilene on the Move” day. Businesses and schools can tailor this Abilene-wide event to suit their organization.
For more information about “Abilene on the Move” day, contact Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness members Karen Stover at 677-1444, ext. 2052 or Deonna Shake at 674-2016 or 691-5009.
July 25, 2008
The Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness seeks your input
ABILENE, Texas – The Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is currently conducting an online survey to assess the physical fitness needs of Abilenians. Citizens are encouraged to take a few minutes to participate in the brief Abilene Fitness Survey. The Mayor’s Council wants to hear from residents who are involved in any type of physical activity, whether it’s a formal gathering or a group of friends who get together each week to walk. The Mayor’s Council also wants to know what could be done to spur more participation in fitness activities.
The survey can be found at www.fitnessabilene.com or on the City of Abilene website, www.abilenetx.com under General Information.
The survey will run through early August. Survey results will assist the Mayor’s Council in making educated decisions concerning the development of community wellness and fitness programs.
Mayor Norm Archibald established the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008.
June 9, 2008
State grant awarded to Mayor's Council on Physical Fitness
ABILENE, Texas – Mayor Norm Archibald announced today that the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness is the recipient of a $24,000 grant from the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness. The grant will go toward the Council’s development of community wellness and fitness programs as well as to conduct a community fitness resource and needs assessment.
“This grant will aid us in determining Abilene’s fitness needs for the young and young at heart”, Mayor Archibald explained. “It’s the first step in implementing a community-wide physical fitness awareness campaign.”
Mayor Archibald appointed the following citizens to the Council: Lisa Duncan, Joy Hedges, Mary Herron, Bill Horn, Chris Kyker, Dr. Ralph McClesky, Tommy Morris, Dr. Dan Munton, Dennis O’Connell, Pug Parris, Marka Riddle, Liz Rotenberry, Deonna Shake and Karen Stover.
The Mayor established the Council on Physical Fitness in March 2008.
March 26, 2008
Abilene’s mayor urges community to shape up this spring
ABILENE, Texas – Inspired by the National President’s Challenge, Mayor Norm Archibald is challenging Abilene citizens to get moving this spring. The National President’s Challenge is a 6-week physical activity challenge in which youth age 6-17 are urged to get at least 60 minutes of activity, five days a week while adults are called on to get at least 30 minutes of activity, five days a week. Mayor Archibald said citizens can meet this challenge by doing something as simple as walking.
Mayor Archibald explained, “I’d like to see residents of all ages do their own version of the National President’s Challenge. It’s about helping people get fit and healthier while doing activities they enjoy which echoes the goals of the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness.”
While getting 30 to 60 minutes of activity a day may seem far reaching, the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness has a few fun, easy suggestions for adults and children:
| Adults: | Kids: |
| Walk on your lunch break | Jump rope |
| Go bowling | Fly a kite |
| Take the dog for a walk | Toss a Frisbee |
| Garden | Ride your bike |
| Take ballroom dancing | Go on a nature hike |
Mayor Archibald recently created the Mayor’s Council on Physical Fitness which is designed to help build a healthier community.