UT Extension Programs Help Carroll County Residents Stay Active, Healthy

Carroll County residents are taking important steps toward improving their health through physical activity programs offered by UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences.

During the month of May, 22 participants completed the annual May Marathon Challenge, a month-long walking and running program designed to encourage individuals to move more and stay active. Participants received weekly motivational emails throughout the challenge to help keep them engaged and inspired. By the end of the month, participants had collectively logged more than 680 miles of walking and running.

Programs like the May Marathon Challenge help participants establish healthy habits while improving cardiovascular health, increasing endurance, managing weight and reducing stress. Just as importantly, they provide encouragement and accountability that can help individuals stay committed to regular physical activity.

UT Extension also recently completed a 12-week Chair Yoga program, consisting of 24 classes and serving 35 participants ranging in age from 30 to 86 years old. Chair Yoga offers a safe and effective form of exercise that can be adapted to a variety of fitness levels and physical abilities. Participants worked to improve flexibility, balance, strength, posture and mobility while also experiencing the mental benefits of exercise, including reduced stress and improved overall well-being.

Due to the overwhelming interest in the program, Chair Yoga classes are continuing and meet every Tuesday and Friday at 9 a.m. at the Huntingdon Church of Christ. New participants are welcome to join.

Following each yoga class, approximately 10 to 15 participants stay for the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy Weight Training class. This program focuses on building strength through resistance exercises that help participants maintain muscle mass, improve balance, increase bone health and support independent living as they age.

Research consistently shows that regular physical activity is one of the most important factors in maintaining health and quality of life. Whether participants are walking miles during the May Marathon Challenge, improving flexibility through Chair Yoga or building strength through resistance training, they are investing in healthier futures for themselves and setting an example for others in the community.

For more information about physical activity programs, nutrition education, financial management classes, healthy aging programs and other opportunities available through UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences in Carroll County, contact the Extension Office at 731-986-1976.

The University of Tennessee Extension service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability or veteran status and is an Equal Opportunity employer.