Community events which promote physical activity can be effective motivators for lasting change in health behaviors. The Just Move It Program, now in its eighth year, brings non-competitive running and walking events to the communities of the Navajo Nation. During 2000, more than 16,000 people participated in Just Move It events in 116 communities. Lessons learned in the implementation of such a wide-ranging public health effort are shared in this presentation. The importance of consistent, sustained efforts, combined with partnerships with the communities themselves are highlighted. Results of follow-up surveys and facilitated group sessions with community leaders, event staff, and community participants are reviewed, and their use in efforts to improve the program are discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: Describe methods for promoting physical activity through community partnerships in Navajo communities.
Keywords: Community-Based Health Promotion, Physical Activity
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.