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To recognize April 25th as the Columbus kickoff for the American Heart Association START! Walking at Work campaign.
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WHEREAS, each year 1.2 million Americans suffer a new and recurrent coronary attack, and cardiovascular disease is the nation's leading cause of death with direct and indirect costs estimated to be $431.8 billion in 2007; and
WHEREAS, more physical activity can help improve these statistics; and
WHEREAS, adults may gain up to two hours of life expectancy for every one hour of vigorous exercise; and
WHEREAS, in addition to increased life expectancy, regular walking has many proven benefits for an individual's overall health. Brisk walking for 30 minutes a day can lower both bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and high blood pressure. It can also help individuals who are overweight achieve and maintain weight loss, and reduce their risk of stroke; and
WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that physically active people save $330 per year in direct medical expenditures; and
WHEREAS, studies indicate that one of the best investments a company can make is in the health of its employees. By promoting a culture of physical activity, corporate America can decrease healthcare costs, increase productivity, and improve the quality of life and longevity of the U.S. workforce; and
WHEREAS, on Start! Walking At Work Day, April 25th, the American Heart Association's Start! movement calls on all employees to wear sneakers to work and Start! Walking At Work; and
WHEREAS, the purpose behind Start! Walking At Work Day is to get Americans to become more physically active by walking.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: that this Council does hereby recognize April 25th as the official Columbus kickoff of the Start! Walking At Work campaign, and encourages individuals and employers to be a part of this noteworthy effort.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that a copy of this Resolution is presented to the local office of the American Heart Association for their leadership in promoting the Start! Walking At Work campaign, and for their tireless effort in improving the health of Central Ohio residents.