The government is launching its 12-week national movement challenge named ‘Move It Cayman’ at the Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge this Sunday, 29 March.
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, the initiative, created under the Step into Wellness campaign, aims to get the nation moving to safeguard overall health and wellbeing.
The goal is simple – to help individuals increase their movement no matter what level of activity they currently partake in.
The challenge, which is open to all residents of the Cayman Islands.
In a press release on 23 March, Deputy Governor Franz Manderson said: “No one should deny that movement is vital to our health and I am delighted that the Move It Cayman challenge is being launched.
“It aligns with our efforts in the civil service to prioritise health and wellness, both among our employees and in the community.
“This is an important priority. I encourage everyone to participate in the challenge and get moving, for your health’s sake.”
There is no age restriction for participation in the challenge – residents of all ages are welcome to take part.
Youth, sports, culture and heritage minister Isaac Rankine said: “Physical activity is essential to building healthier communities and improving quality of life at every age and stage.”
Schools, children and families are encouraged to participate as the challenge aims to enhance existing efforts to help young people develop healthy habits.
Education minister Rolston Anglin said: “Through physical education and a range of sporting activities, our schools encourage students to stay active and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
“The Move It Cayman challenge complements these efforts by encouraging students to make movement part of their daily lives.”
The Ministry of Health also asked stakeholders in the public, private and NPO sectors to join forces in making more opportunities for movement available to the community.
“We want as many people to join this challenge as possible,” said chief nursing officer Felicia McLean.
“Businesses that have employee wellness programmes or that are interested in getting staff more active, are invited to get in touch with us and share their goals for the challenge.
“We will be launching a community calendar of both free and discounted events across all three islands that will help residents see what is on offer throughout the three months.
“We will also be engaging with participants via social media throughout the event and will be offering opportunities for both individuals and groups to enter to win fun prizes.”
Registration is now open and the sign-up survey is available here.
Health and fitness stakeholders who wish to contribute to the calendar can email mhwsteps@gov.ky to learn more or to join the challenge.
Businesses that would like to register for the challenge, can do so here and schools can also register to participate here.
