Making a difference

JMI inspires participants to improve lives

SHIPROCK

In about three short months, Kelley Clark saw a difference in her health and habits.

Out of the 24 years Just Move It has been in existence, this was Clark’s first year trying to make all 28 stops on the Shiprock Just Move It schedule.

She missed four but gained more than she had hoped for.

“I lost a couple of pounds, I’m really watching what I eat,” she said. “Even my snacking is different. I look for healthier snacks than the quick snacks like chips and soda.”

She joined some friends in the challenge to make every stop and found taking on the challenge to be one of the most rewarding experiences.
Clark said while the events benefitted her, they were also food for the soul.

“The biggest thing that I like to see are the kids — the kids that come out and actually sweat, and have a good time you can see them laughing … Just to experience seeing the kids get out with their families.”

The 2016 JMI season ended last Thursday with final stops in Shiprock and Chinle, Arizona. Shiprock drew one of the, if not, the largest crowd.

Hundreds came out for the final leg that was themed a Navajo Code Talker event, where participants wore their military and Code Talker memorabilia.

The event also featured the Strong Warriors organization that set up a Warrior Challenge with an obstacle course and non-competitive run.

Shiprock Health Promotion Recreational Specialist Roberta Diswood said partnering with the local programs like Strong Warriors has been a newly added feature that added to the enticement of JMI.

“This past season went really good, we had a lot of new participants, meaning somebody who hasn’t been to a JMI event or maybe it’s their first time,” she said. “We did have our last events where we partnered with some of the running groups in our area … I think a lot that has to do with it.”

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