contact:
Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495
Dave Minarik, (402) 540-2901, dmlnarik@nebraskasportscouncil.com
Governor's Wellness Walk encourages healthy living
NE's Lincoln – Today, Gov. Jim Pillen, UNO Athletic Director Adrian Dowell, Mavericks head soccer coach Donovan Dowling, Mavericks women's soccer coach Tim Walters, Nebraska Sports Council Dave Minarik, Husker women's basketball Player Karin Heke met in the state Capitol today. The talk, shared during a short press conference, encouraged Nebraskan to make healthy living a priority in 2025. This walk has circumnavigated the second floor corridor of Capitol multiple times, providing examples of simple ways to adapt physical activity to busy everyday life. .
“I firmly believe in the importance of exercise and fitness as a foundation for a healthy lifestyle,” Gov. Pillen said. “It doesn't have to be difficult to get healthy and adequate exercise, it can be as easy as walking.”
According to the latest data, Dr. Tim Tesmer, Nebraska's Chief Medical Officer, reported that Nebraska's adult obesity rate has increased significantly from 28% in 2011 to 36.6% in 2024. He also said that almost 24% of Nebraskans report not getting enough physical activity. Additionally, Dr. Tesmer shared that a person's physical condition is a major factor in their risk of contracting most major illnesses.
“Physical activity is the foundation of health and wellness and plays an important role in preventing many chronic health conditions, including obesity, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers,” says Tesmer. The doctor said. “Whether it's through walking, yoga, or another form of movement, the best time to start is now. The key is to move, stay moving.”
“We're looking forward to seeing you in the process of exploring the world,” said Dave Minarik, president of Nebraska Sports Council. “We encourage all Nebraskans to stay motivated using WellPowerMovement.com's free activity tracking program.”
Coordinating the Governor's Walks, the Nebraska Sports Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to provide quality sports competition and promote healthy lifestyle choices. Details of the Well Power Movement and Nebraska Sports Council nebraskasportscouncil.com.
Governor Jim Pillen
Dave Minalic, president of Nebraska Sports Council
Gov. Jim Piren and head of Nebraska Sports Council, Dave Minarick, head of the Wellness Walk