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Being Physically Healthy

The Physically Healthy Collaborative Action Network (CAN) of NEK Prosper! is committed to maintaining physical health & well-being through healthy behaviors & medical care.

Physically Healthy

The numbers below show the difference between the actual and targeted percentages in several categories and groups as they relate to being physically healthy.

% of adults with no leisure time for aerobic activity 2018

  • Actual Value 18% 18%
  • Target Value 15% 15%

% of adults meeting aerobic activity guidelines 2018

  • Actual Value 60% 60%
  • Target Value 65% 65%

Story Behind the Curve

Being physically active is one of the most important things adults can do to improve their health. Regular physical activity can reduce the burden of chronic disease, such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers, and can prevent early death. Physical activity can also help people with chronic conditions manage their disease, as well as help manage weight, prevent falls, reduce depression, and may improve cognitive skills. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity each week. Adults tend to spend long hours sitting at work or home in front of “screens”. Additionally, the rural nature of Vermont has inadequate “active living” infrastructure.

Gear Lending Library

NEK Prosper! and the Physically Healthy Collaborative Action Network (CAN) have partnered with Rec Fit and Link, Inc. to offer the local community access to free winter gear through a lending library as an opportunity for all  to experience our beautiful local trail systems.

The program is designed to support individuals and families of all abilities to enjoy outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. The lending library will provide access to snowshoes for all ages from toddler to adult, trekking poles and MICROspikes in adult sizes.

To reserve equipment, visit our online store at www.rentle.store/nekprosperlendinggearlibrary/shop.  Select the gear you wish to borrow, the date, and provide your contact information. It’s that easy! Once your order is complete, you will receive an email confirmation with your reservation confirmation. On the day of your gear reservation, visit Rec Fit, located at 49 Perkins Street in St. Johnsbury and check in at the front desk to pick up your gear. Enjoy the great outdoors and when finished, return your equipment to Rec Fit before the end of your reservation period.

If you are in need of winter clothing or footwear, H.O.P.E. in Lyndonville may be able to help. For more information, contact H.O.P.E. at (802) 626-3228.

NEK Prosper wishes to thank the Town of St. Johnsbury, Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative, Rec Fit, St. Johnsbury Academy and Link, Inc. for providing funding and support to the program.

Lending Gear Questions

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Join Us

Check out these upcoming opportunities for physical health!

St. Johnsbury Walk & Talk 

The St. Johnsbury Walk and Talk program has ended for 2023. Check back in with us in April 2024 for our start date.

Get your steps in with us! The walking group is free and open for all to attend, offering a social walking pace along the beautiful historic neighborhoods in St. Johnsbury. Join us on Mondays at 6:00 p.m. at the Four Seasons Neighborhood Park located at the intersection of Main Street and Winter Street. For more information, contact Jen Grant at (802) 748-9405 ext. 1026 or by email at jennifergr@nchcvt.org.

 

How to Get Involved

Come to an event, borrow a Smoothie Bike, submit a photo for the Photo of the Month,  download a copy of our Worksite Toolkit, or join one of our seasonal activities like Pop Ups in the Park.

Submit an active event for our event calendar so that others in the NEK can easily find fun and active things to do.

Or join our Collaborative Action Network (CAN).

CAN members have strong expertise, influence, interest and/or resources in area of focus.

Partners

Currently Physically Healthy CAN Members include representatives from:

  • Adaptive Sports Partners
  • Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital
  • Northern Counties Health Care
  • Towns of St. Johnsbury and Lyndon
  • Vermont Department of Health
  • NEK Council on Aging
  • Northeast Kingdom Community Action
  • Kingdom East School District
  • Lyndon Outing Club
  • Powered Magazine
  • Mental Health Counselors
  • Local Fitness Providers

If you are interested in joining the CAN or want to learn more about our work contact Kaitlyn Carreau, Kaitlyn.Carreau@vermont.gov