Park Farther Program Launches

Regular physical activity provides more energy, stronger muscles, less stress, and burns calories. And now there are more reasons to become physically active, because you might win a prize.

Adult obesity rates in Utah are at 22 percent, and fully 23 percent of Utah children are overweight or obese, contributing to poor health and decreased quality of life. To help address this crisis, Intermountain Healthcare has partnered with Utah businesses to launch a new statewide program, which is part of the ongoing LiVe public service campaign.

The innovative and fun program called "Park Farther" encourages people to take a few more steps and provides rewards for being more active. Select parking stalls in the large lots of local business partners have been designated for the program. The remote spaces have been painted with the message, "Park here to walk farther and be healthier," which is underscored by a large red LiVe logo.

Participants who choose to "Park Farther" can win I-Pods, I-Tune gift cards, grocery store gift certificates for fruits and vegetables, and other interesting prizes! Winners will be selected by a prize patrol that will randomly stake-out "Park Farther" locations. To increase your chances, simply make it a habit to "Park Farther" in designated parking stalls and see the benefits of increased physical activity.

Organizations that have already become involved in the program include Salt Lake County, West Valley City, certain Smith's Food and Drug stores, Days Market, SelectHealth, and Intermountain Healthcare hospitals and select clinics. Businesses interested in joining the effort toward a healthier Utah are invited to participate and can sign up for the "Park Farther" project online.

The "Park Farther" project is part of Intermountain Healthcare's ongoing LiVe public service campaign that encourages healthy eating and an active lifestyle.

For more information about the Park Farther program, visit the website at:

• IntermountainLive.org