The Buffalo Center for Health Equity and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield partnered with the city to launch the inaugural ‘Move with Mayor’ event at Delaware Park on a recent Saturday morning. This initiative, part of a national program organized by the National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Preventionaims to encourage physical activity and promote healthier lifestyles across more than 50 cities in the United States.
The event began with a leisurely walk, run, or skate along the park’s scenic Ring Roadwhere Mayor Sean Ryan led two laps with enthusiastic participants. The gathering at the Nottingham Terrace entrance welcomed individuals of all fitness levels, emphasizing inclusivity and community spirit.
The Importance of Breaking Down Health Barriers
Mayor Ryan highlighted the event’s broader mission to address the social determinants of healthwhere factors like address and zip code can significantly influence health outcomes. ‘We’re trying to break down these barriers,’ Ryan stated, noting that physical activity can be as effective as medication for managing chronic conditions like pre-diabetes and hypertension.
The mayor also emphasized the mental and community benefits of exercise. ‘Look around you today. It’s wonderful,’ he remarked, encouraging residents to appreciate the beauty and accessibility of their local parks. ‘These parks are the people’s country clubs,’ Ryan added, pointing to the city’s investment of millions of dollars in making these spaces open and inviting for all.
Promoting Health and Community Engagement
Pastor George NicholasCEO of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, underscored the organization’s mission to eliminate race-based health disparities. Events like ‘Move with Mayor’ are crucial in addressing serious health issues such as heart disease and diabetes in the city. ‘If you get out, exercise 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 50 or whatever a day, it will help you with your health,’ Nicholas said, highlighting the physical and mental benefits of regular activity.
Nicholas also addressed the impact of the pandemic on community engagement. ‘COVID had isolated us a little bit, and now we have to get back out of our houses and start moving and promoting good health,’ he noted, stressing the importance of reconnecting with one another and fostering a sense of community.
Following the walk, participants enjoyed free fitness classes at the Nottingham Terrace entrance, including a Body of Wealth bootcamp sponsored by Highmark and a beginner-friendly Caribbean dance and fitness class called LeeJay’s Dancehall. These activities provided a fun and engaging way for residents to stay active and connected.
The Impact of the ‘Move with Mayor’ Initiative
Mayor Ryan expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, ‘I feel invigorated. You get to go out, nice, great morning, got to see the beautiful trees.’ His words captured the essence of the initiative, which seeks to inspire residents to take advantage of the natural beauty and resources available in their community.
The ‘Move with Mayor’ event is part of a broader effort to promote active, healthy living and break down barriers to good health. By encouraging residents to get out and move, the initiative aims to improve physical and mental well-being while fostering a stronger sense of community. As Buffalo continues to invest in its parks and public spaces, events like these play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
