Participants in the Barron County 10,000 Steps Challenge have traveled more than halfway around the world in the first two weeks of the program, with a county mileage total of 15,570. (The distance around the world at the equator is 24,902 miles). All communities are doing very well, with Barron currently having the highest average daily step count at 10,717. A few organizations have even taken the challenge a step further.  Cumberland Hospital and 3M Cumberland both organized worksite employee challenges as part of the program. Each facility has already traveled over 4000 miles.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity reduces the risk of dying of heart disease, the nation's leading cause of death. It also decreases the risk for stroke, colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. People that exercise regularly have an easier time controlling weight, fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, and fewer visits to the doctor. Just 30 minutes of brisk walking, five or more times a week is beneficial.

More information on the Barron County 10,000 Steps Challenge and the benefits of exercise can be found at www.healthiercumberland.org