During the months of October through December, Air Force Materiel Command will promote its RECESS physical activity challenge.
RECESS is a command-wide initiative which is conducted by Civilian Health Promotion Services, to help the AFMC workforce increase movement by promoting short bursts of physical activity throughout the day.
According to a 2015 study of the health effects of sedentary time on adults published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, more than half of the average person’s waking hours are spent sitting, watching television, working at a computer, driving, or doing other physically inactive pursuits.
The study documented higher rates of type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease in very sedentary people.
The RECESS physical activity challenge promotes regular movement to combat sedentary behavior. Examples of how to increase movement would include:
• Taking short walks during lunch and throughout the day.
• Using the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Standing while talking on the phone.
• If you work at a desk for long periods of time, try a standing desk – or improvise with a high table or counter.
Moving more and sitting less daily will help you to counteract the detrimental health effects of sitting. The key is to move your body frequently during the course of the day.
How to participate in the RECESS Physical Activity Challenge:
1. Enroll online at http://www.afmcwellness.com/ between Sept. 19-Oct. 26.
2. Complete the initial check-in event with CHPS between Oct. 5-26.
3. Perform and log at least 720 minutes (12 hours) of physical activity between Oct. 17–Dec. 2. Log activity minutes on the http://www.afmcwellness.com/ Activity Log from Oct. 17–Dec. 2.
4. Attend the CHPS education class, “Physical Health Triangle” between Oct. 17–Dec. 2.
5. Attend final check-out with CHPS between Dec. 6-16 to receive the challenge completion award.
Participants that complete the RECESS physical activity challenge requirements will receive a free Restore Strong Core & Back Kit from CHPS. Contact your physician before beginning any physical activity program to be sure it is safe.
For more information, visit http://www.afmcwellness.com/ or contact your local CHPS team.
