It’s March, and that means it’s time to move, Alabama. March 1 signaled the start of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s second annual Move Alabama Challenge. Continuing through March 31, this challenge encourages residents of all ages to find ways to be more physically active every day.

Erin Reznicek, an Alabama Extension family and consumer sciences specialist, said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 30% of Alabama is considered physically inactive. This means that adults report doing little-to-no physical activity or exercise outside of normal jobs.

“The goal of Move Alabama is to encourage Alabamians to connect through physical activity,” Reznicek said.

The Move Alabama initiative is a collaborative effort between the Alabama Extension at Auburn University Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) teams.

The Challenge

Move Alabama provides residents with a challenge flyer that contains tips on incorporating movement into daily activities. These challenges are designed for both individual participation and group activities with family and friends.

These activities aim to boost physical health and encourage participants to explore the public amenities in their communities. These include places such as parks, trails and downtown shopping areas — highlighting the joy and benefits of engaging in free, local physical activities.

Providing Connection

Alabama Extension coordinators have created a public Move Alabama Facebook group to help build community throughout the challenge. The group serves as a place for participants to connect, share progress, stay motivated and learn valuable insights about keeping an active lifestyle. SNAP-Ed and EFNEP encourage Alabamians to take and share photos in the group as they participate in physical activities.

Reznicek said this social media aspect allows participants to challenge each other in a fun way.

“Finding time and motivation for exercise can be a challenge,” Reznicek said. “This initiative promotes and aids in discovering small moments in your daily routine to incorporate more physical activity, especially with the involvement of friends, family and the community.”

This year, coordinators have also introduced a text messaging service as an added way to stay connected and motivated. Up to three times per week, this service delivers tips to keep moving to those who opt into the service. Text MoveAL to 833-545-0693 to join and be entered to win challenge prizes.

Time to Get Moving

Last year, Extension agents hosted successful events — such as book walks, color runs, downtown scavenger hunts and chalk walks. Each of these activities encouraged physical activity while engaging with community members.

Look for Move Alabama events and pop-up challenges in your community. Visit your county Extension office’s Facebook page for information on local events happening this year. You can also pick up a challenge flyer from participating Extension offices or download one from the Move Alabama Facebook group.