Spotlights
Daniel Matthews
At 50, Daniel Matthews, a classroom behavioral specialists in the Charter Schools Office, ran his fifth, and last, marathon. Now 62, though he stayed active his whole life, he says he never really enjoyed the process. Last year, however, something changed. Daniel participated in the Pedometer Challenge. He was so encouraged by his results, he wanted to continue to track his steps after the challenge ended. Setting a daily step goal changed his perspective on physical activity.
“I look for ways to increase steps.”
Daniel now finds small ways to squeeze more steps into his day. He’ll find a parking spot further away and take more loads with less items when unpacking his car. Tracking his steps on his phone, his goal is to reach 10,000 steps each day. He usually surpasses this goal, reaching an average of 11,000.
Daniel credits fellow colleague, Tona Ambrose's excitement in staying fit and healthy as the reason he got involved with the Pedometer Challenge. Starting the Pedometer Challenge gave Daniel the opportunity to reach out to his brother for help.
Morning walks with his brother are the primary way Daniel works to meet his daily goal. Each morning he and his brother meet at the White Pine Trail, which is lit in the morning and plowed all year which means no excuses rain or shine. He encourages everyone to take advantage of the walking trails that Michigan has to offer. The walks with his brother encourage him to change his lifestyle in other ways, as well. He’s noticed that since they’ve begun walking, they seem to be eating better and getting enough sleep.
“Having the ability to walk with my brother in the morning is a huge motivation.”
His advice for anyone that wants to start living a healthier lifestyle is to do it with someone else. Having a partner motivates you to keep exercising and gives you the support you need to keep going. Daniel is thankful that Grand Valley offers programs like the Pedometer Challenge and encourages anyone who is looking to change their life to take part.
“See if you can hook up with someone else.”
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