Pitt's "America on the Move" to Host Family Health Walk to Kick Off Program in New Castle May 3

PITTSBURGH-"America on the Move," the University of Pittsburgh Department of Health and Physical Activity's local initiative of the national program, will host a Family Health Walk to activate the program for residents of New Castle, at 9:30 a.m. May 3 at Leslie Sansone's Walk Productions Studio, Ludwig Road, New Castle. Registration for the free event is from 9 to 9:30 a.m.

Special guest will be KDKA-TV News anchor Stephanie Watson, who will serve as mistress of ceremonies for the walking event.

The "America on the Move" plan is based on scientific research Professor John Jakicic conducted in Pitt's Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center. Jakicic is director of the center, chair of Pitt's health and physical activity department, and organizer of "America on the Move" in Pittsburgh.

The program encourages individuals to eat less and get moving with fun, effective activity. According to Jakicic, the program combines the necessary tools with the implementation steps to help individuals make meaningful lifestyle changes related to activity, diet, and body weight.

Prizes at the event will include pedometers, t-shirts, exercise videos, and other health-related items.

In addition to the University, "America on the Move" regional sponsors are UPMC Health Plan, H. J. Heinz Company, Del Monte Foods, KDKA-TV, Pitt's Diabetes Institute, and Leslie Sansone Walk at Home.

For more information on "America on the Move" and to view upcoming events, visit http://americaonthemove.org.

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