Governor Jim Pillen walked multiple laps through the State Capitol’s 2nd-floor hallways Friday morning, encouraging Nebraskans to make healthy living a priority in 2025.
This was Pillen’s 3rd annual ‘Wellness Walk’ as Governor. The walk is organized each year by the Nebraska Sports Council.
The Governor was joined in the walk, and a preceding press conference about health, by UNO Athletic Director Adrian Dowell, Mavericks Head Soccer Coach Donovan Dowling, Mavericks Women’s Soccer Coach Tim Walters, Nebraska Sports Council President Dave Minarik and Husker Women’s Basketball player Callin Hake.
“I’m a firm believer in the importance of exercise and fitness as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle,” said Gov. Pillen. “Being healthy and getting enough exercise doesn’t have to be hard and can be as simple as walking.”
Nebraska’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tim Tesmer reported that the rate of adult obesity in Nebraska has increased significantly from 28% in 2011 to 36.6% in 2024, according to the latest data. He also noted that nearly 24% of Nebraskans report they do not get enough physical activity.
Dr. Tesmer said that a person’s physical condition is a prime factor in their risk of contracting most major diseases.
“Physical activity is a cornerstone of health and wellness, playing a key role in preventing many chronic health conditions such as obesity, heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and certain cancers,” said Dr. Tesmer. “Whether it is through walking, yoga, or another form of movement, the best time to start is now. The key is to get moving and keep moving.”
Learn more about the WellPower Movement and the Nebraska Sports Council at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.