2009 Start! campaign is off and ... walking

AT&T's regional director, Jack Mitchell, walked through Marion Square in a suit and tie, his tennis shoes in hand.

Shedding his dress shoes and jacket, he got on one of the two treadmills stationed at Calhoun and King streets.

More than a dozen local leaders took turns on exercise machines to make a point — walking just 15 minutes a day can reduce stroke, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. And walking with a buddy makes it go even faster.

The Wednesday event launched the American Heart Association's Start! campaign, encouraging people to take the first step toward heart health by walking.

The effort culminates in the September Start! Lowcountry Heart Walk, which drew 4,000 participants last year, said Courtney Duncan with Coastal South Carolina American Heart Association.

Wind whipped drizzling rain into light sprays, toppling an unsecured sign. Organizers erected a tent and tucked power cords out of the water's way. Despite the weather, all participants remained on point.

John Sullivan, chief executive officer of Roper St. Francis Healthcare's Mount Pleasant hospital, said, "It's hard to meet someone not affected by stroke and heart disease. Even though the economic situation is hard, those risks continue."

Charleston Mayor Joe Riley said, "I support anything we can do to encourage people to take greater care of their health."

This year's Start! campaign, with help from its sponsor, Medical University of South Carolina, emphasizes workplace wellness, Duncan said. Organizers are meeting with area employers to improve fitness options for workers.

Also new this year is an online walking buddy program. A survey by the American Heart Association found that adults are 76 percent more likely to walk if someone else is counting on them.

MORE INFO

To join the American Heart Association's MyStart! Community to track changes in your physical activity and diet, visit the MyStart! web site.

Reach Jill Coley at 937-5719 or jcoley@postandcourier.com.