News Release                                    For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                                       May 9, 2007

The Owen Sound Bike/Walk to Work Challenge

May 22 – June 29, 2007

The fifth annual Bike/Walk to Work Challenge takes place May 22 – June 29, 2007. This popular contest encourages employees to walk or bike to work over a six-week period as a way to add physical activity into their workday. Last year over 20 workplaces in Owen Sound participated in this event.

Research shows 54% of Grey Bruce residents are inactive (Canadian Community Health Survey, 2001). Walking or biking to work is one way to become more physically active. Being physically active for the recommended minimum 30 minutes a day for 4 -7 days a week decreases the risk of stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis.

Not only does cycling or walking help increase physical activity but it helps improve our environment. Burning fossil fuels is a major contributing factor to global climate change. Reducing automobile use helps improve air quality.

To get started cycling to work be sure your bike is in good working order, especially brakes, gears and tires. It is also advised, but not required by law, to wear a CSA-approved helmet. Learn the hand signals for turning or stopping. Start slowly and at an easy pace. If your trip to work is just too far, ride to a co-worker’s house and then walk to work.

To participate in the Bike Walk to Work Challenge register your workplace through the Grey Bruce Health Unit. Employees who bike or walk to work from May 22 – June 29, 2007 are eligible to win prizes including the grand prize of a new commuter bike from Jolley’s Alternative Wheels.

Prizes Include:

• 1^st Prize:  Brand new commuter bike from Jolley’s Alternative Wheels 
• 2^nd Prize:  $125 gift certificate for running shoes and a pedometer
• 3^rd Prize:  1 hour private pool party package at Harrison Park
• 4^th Prize:  Owen Sound Recreation Program $75.00 Gift Certificate

For more information, contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca. For the Ministry of Transportation Cycling Skills handbook look under ‘publications’ www.mto.gov.on.ca

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For more information:

Jennifer Croft

Health Promoter

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 469