Florence, Wis. — Are you as active as you want to be? How does being active help fight chronic disease?

The Florence County Community Health Improvement Plan 2015-2020 determined chronic disease prevention as the third most important health priority for Florence County, after alcohol and other drug abuses and mental health.

The 2018 Community Health Rankings obesity rate for Florence County was 33 percent, whereas the state of Wisconsin was better at 31 percent. Residents also reported being more physically inactive at 24 percent, whereas the state of Wisconsin was 21 percent.

To provide opportunities for physical activity, the Florence County Health Department and Aging and Disability Resource Center are offering the evidence-based program Walk with Ease, targeting all adults. Walk with Ease is a program for better living that is promoted by the Arthritis Foundation. It is an exercise and education program that can reduce pain and improve overall health. If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can have success with Walk with Ease.

The benefits of the program are to motivate you to get in great shape, walk safely and comfortably, improve your flexibility, strength and stamina and reduce pain.

If you want to take part but have concerns about your health, consult your physician before you begin. Classes will take place over six weeks from 3 to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays starting Sept. 24 in the lower level of the Wild Rivers Interpretive Center and are led by a certified facilitator and registered nurse, Ann Price.

Classes require a minimum number of participants to take place. Call the Florence County Health Department at 715-528-3426 to register. Walk with Ease books will be provided free through the ADRC of Florence County.

For more information, go to the Florence County Health Department webpage at http://www.florencecountywi.com.