Health and wellness goes virtual in Wellness Center run

Christopher Lomahquahu
Gila River Indain News

The Gila River Wellness Center wrapped-up their first virtual run and walk encouraging families and individuals to participate from July 16-19. 

The Wellness Center organized a virtual run to promote physical activity while social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We drew our inspiration from huge runs that you see on social media” said Tiffany Boni, Wellness Center, Health Education Specialist. 

Participants connected with the other runners while accomplishing fitness goals in a virtual setting. 

“At first, it was about doing something for the Fourth of July and still coming together, even if we are apart, to give each other that feeling we are not alone,” said Boni. 

The event drew over 90 participants, who were required to submit a photo along with a screen shot of their completed activity. 

“A majority of them were from the Community and others, that were non-members, even from Nebraska,” said Boni. 

The Wellness Center offers events similar to the virtual run that promotes healthy activity such as an on-going wellness challenge, and a lunch hour fitness class is streamed via Zoom by a Wellness Center instructor. 

The Wellness Center is looking at ways to modify upcoming annual events such as the “Trail of Doom.” 

The goal, is to keep Community members active during the pandemic by providing them opportunities to stay active. Boni said people can stay motivated and active in several ways and events like the Virtual Run can help families maintain their health and wellness.