Queensland Miners ... It's time to step up!
Published on 02 July, 2013
10,000 Steps workplaces challenges the mining industry to move more.
The state's mining workforce will put its best foot forward when it signs up to Queensland's 10,000 Steps Challenge.
Director of the 10,000 Steps Program, Dr Mitchell Duncan said mining workers would join the many other Queenslanders who have already joined the program and started to improve their physical activity levels.
‘‘There's little doubt that Queensland's mining industry has always contributed significantly to our lifestyle and economy,'' Dr Duncan said.
‘‘Unfortunately, the nature of the work for many in the mining industry means limited physical activity, long periods away from home as well as limited control over what they eat.
‘‘The aim of this challenge is to encourage mining workers to improve their health and wellbeing by increasing their levels of physical activity.''
Dr Duncan said employers would also benefit from the challenge.
‘‘Workplaces will welcome the safety, financial and cultural benefits of a healthier workforce,'' he said.
"The program will see participants clip a pedometer to their belt or waistband so they can count the steps they take each day before, during and after work."
‘‘The goal is to increase the number of steps taken each day and for many people 10,000 steps per day is a good goal."
Dr Duncan said he would encourage the mining industry to make the investment in their staff's health.
‘‘The only cost involved is the purchase of good-quality pedometers,'' he said.
‘'It's also an idea to add challenges and incentives for you staff like creating team walking challenges.''
In Queensland, the 10,000 Steps Program is funded by the Department of Health and, as a joint Australian, State and Territory Government initiative under the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health.
If you'd like to become a 10,000 Steps member or find more information about the program, visit http://www.10000steps.org.au/ or download the free 10,000 Steps iPhone app ‘iStep log'.
Visit www.10000steps.org.au to find out where to purchase your pedometers and information on bulk order discounts.