For the second year, the Lowndes County YMCAs invite members of Columbus and Lowndes County to join more than 1,400 YMCAs nationwide in taking small steps toward creating a healthy family home during America On the Move Week with the YMCA, Sept. 20-27, 2009.

According to research by the America On the Move Foundation, making two small daily changes -- taking 2,000 more steps (the equivalent of about a mile) and eating 100 fewer calories -- can prevent the average annual weight gain of one to two pounds.

This year, the goal is to reach 5 million steps in Lowndes County and 10 billion steps across the nation during this designated week.

"Our goal should not be hard to achieve. Last year we logged over 2.9 million steps throughout the county. This year we are offering more ways to track your steps", said Barbara Bigelow, YMCA director of community relations. "Each day, participants can count their steps taken while engaging in many forms of physical activity, such as swimming, biking, dancing, aerobics, gardening and other group or family activities that promote well-being."

"The YMCA hopes to inspire our community to take simple steps to achieve lasting healthy changes in their lives," continued Bigelow. "America On the Move Week With the YMCA provides individuals and families with tools to make healthier choices at home, work, school and throughout the community."

Participants of all ages can join the activities at either the downtown Y or the New Hope Y for activities including one-mile fun walks, Lunch and Learns, a health fair and an open house.

The Frank Phillips YMCA will host several one-mile fun walks daily Monday through Thursday, Sept. 21-24, from 9-10 a.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m. and on Friday, Sept. 25, at 9 a.m. only. These one-mile fun walks are free and open to the public.

Also, this year, the downtown Y will host Lunch and Learns on Monday and Friday at noon. Participants can bring a sack lunch to the seminars. Melissa Parsons, YMCA wellness director, will conduct the seminar on Monday, "Exercise Simplified," and Friday's Lunch and Learn will feature Palina Clark discussing "Nutrition Basics." Reservations must be made in advance as space is limited.

The New Hope YMCA will host one-mile fun walks each morning at 9 a.m.