Walking ’Canes is an annual challenge where participants aim to complete a predetermined number of steps within a 12-week period. Those who meet their goal can earn up to 500 points toward the Well ’Canes Incentive Program and get one step closer to earning $300.
With 2,023,982 total steps Velda Thompkins, senior library assistant at the Miller School of Medicine’s Louis Calder Memorial Library, placed first in this year’s challenge. Thompkins always has led an active lifestyle. But after an accident in 2007, movement became a top priority. “It was hard for me to walk. It was very painful,” shared Thompkins. “Now, walking without stopping for an hour or more helps me loosen up. I walk to stay in the best health that I can be.”
In second place with 1,715,879 total steps is Catherine Bernstein, supervisor in the Division of Veterinary Resources on the Medical Campus. Growing up, Bernstein followed along as her father did exercise at home, and now she is setting the same example for her son. “My son, now 11, and I have been running 5K races since he was 5,” said Bernstein. “We both challenge each other to meet daily activity goals.”
Active in local run clubs and maintaining a daily exercise routine, she said that she believes that anyone can incorporate movement into their lives. “It may seem paradoxical but it’s true—the more energy you use in physical activity, the more energy you have.”
Totaling 1,537,964 steps, William Diaz, senior financial analyst at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, earned third place. Diaz encourages everyone to start their movement journey today. “Every chance is an opportunity to keep moving,” he said. While running and resistance training are a great way to get moving, he noted that movement begins at home. “Gardening and home projects provide a lot of movement and may surprise you on how active you can be.”
While the 2023 Walking ’Canes challenge has concluded, the Well ’Canes Incentive Program offers many educational tools and initiatives designed to improve and maintain your health and well-being. Faculty and staff members must be enrolled in the University of Miami/Aetna medical plan as the primary subscriber to be eligible to participate.
Learn more about the Well ’Canes program and how to earn the $300 incentive and stay tuned for the next Walking 'Canes challenge, which kicks off in February 2024.
