The District of Columbia Department of Health (DOH) announced today that it will host a “City-wide Stretch” event at its 825 North Capitol Street, NE  location. The event is being held in recognition of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) 2010 National Physical Activity Plan, which will start its nation-wide launch in the District, at the National Press Club on May 3, 2010. The National Physical Activity Plan is a comprehensive set of strategies, which includes policies, practices and initiatives aimed to provoke more physical activity on a national level.

“It is important that our community is involved in healthy physical activity on a regular basis. We have all seen the statistics, and know the facts – improved physical activity, combined with healthy eating and stress reduction, make for healthier bodies and minds,” said Dr. Pierre Vigilance, Director of DOH.

All District government employees are welcome to participate in a brief ten minute session of safe and easy stretching that will take place in the courtyard of DOH at noon.  Those who cannot attend the City-wide Stretch are encouraged to coordinate a brief “stretch activity” within their Agency.

Stretching can be done at your desk and in your home, and can serve as a good way to increase flexibility; participants are encouraged to consult with a physician before engaging in any physical activity.