FORT LEE, Va. –
FORT LEE, Va., Oct. 18, 2017 — Between April and June, almost a third of Defense Contract Management Agency’s 12,000-plus workforce took part in a 5k walk encouraging a healthy lifestyle.
It was the largest turnout in history for the agency-sponsored event with 3,557 employees participating from 30 states and seven countries worldwide totaling a combined walking distance of over 10,000 miles.
The Walk to Wellness is an annual initiative to raise awareness of the value of wellness and prevention through physical activity.
“I think this walk is an eye-opening experience for a lot of employees, especially those who have fallen out of the routine of regular exercise,” said Taylor Anderson, DCMA’s WorkLife, wellness and fitness coordinator.
“Events like this speak volumes to the leadership here at DCMA and how highly the agency values the health and wellness of its employees,” she said. “It is a wonderful chance to build camaraderie among employees while getting some exercise and fresh air.”
In addition to the health benefits, Priscilla Ruben, a management analyst at DCMA Santa Ana, says the event helped her office build relationships.
“There are so many benefits from participating,” Ruben said. “It’s fun, it can bring employees closer as a cohesive team, it improves physical fitness, promotes a healthy work and personal lifestyle, and brings a sense of accomplishment.”
Overseas, DCMA International staff members took advantage of the event to get out and explore scenic and cultural locations. Air Force Capt. Yancy Tang, executive officer for DCMA Pacific, mentioned beaches, mountains and tropical forests where 5k walks were held around the Pacific region.
The exotic locations added to what Tang described as a healthy change of pace.
“It’s a nice break from the office atmosphere where we can talk about hobbies, families, anything not work related,” Tang said. “Although in some situations, we still end up talking about work.”
Anderson says she is impressed with the results from this year’s event and hopes to see even higher numbers in 2018.
“Taking the first step to a healthier lifestyle can often be the most difficult part of the process,” she said. “Participating in agency-sponsored events like the Walk to Wellness and our quarterly health challenges can start your health journey with support from friends, coworkers and the WorkLife Team.”
To find out more on health and fitness opportunities at DCMA, contact your local WorkLife coordinator.