10,000 reasons to be healthy

 

TAKING STEPS: Members of HMAS Albatross Navy Aviation Systems Program Office (NASPO) taking part in the 10,000 steps program. Photo: ABPH Craig Owen

The business management section of the Navy Aviation Systems Program Office (NASPO) has taken steps to improve the health and wellbeing of its workers.

In accordance with the DMO Wellbeing Framework, the 10,000 Steps physical activity program was officially introduced to NASPO employees on September 28 and concluded on November 29, with more than 140 civilian and ADF personnel taking up the challenge.

Commander NASPO, CAPT Steve Pearson, endorsed the program based on its contribution to the overall health and wellbeing of employees and therefore to organisational productivity.

A two kilometre walk around HMAS Albatross, led by CAPT Anthony Dalton and a barbecue lunch, launched the program.

Pedometers were provided to employees prior to the launch walk to assist with setting goals and monitoring daily activity levels.

The program aims to increase day-to-day activity by encouraging the accumulation of “incidental” physical activity as part of everyday living.

NASPO personnel could achieve 10,000 steps per day by simply adding a 30 minute walk to their everyday activities.
The 10,000 Steps physical activity program was initially funded by Queensland Health and is based at the Central Queensland University.

A similar program (10K a Day) has been adopted within the Australian Public Service by the Department of Health and Ageing.

DMO has also identified the program in its policy to promote wellbeing in the workplace.
The 10,000 Steps program is now being considered for further rollout across NASPO.

For more information, see the 10,000 Steps website at: www.10000steps.org.au.

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