BANGOR – The Bangor Y invites individuals, businesses, civic groups, church groups and clubs to participate in a national campaign called America on the Move week, Sept. 23-30. America on the Move is a national nonprofit initiative with the aim of improving quality of life for individuals, families, communities and society.

America on the Move has teamed up with YMCAs across the country, including the Bangor Y, to try to get America moving. These organizations have set a goal of reaching 1 billion steps all across America during the week of Sept. 23-30.

More than 120 million Americans – 64.5 percent of the adult population – are overweight, and this can contribute to serious health problems, said Bangor Y officials.

Research shows that two small changes can halt weight gain. Adding an extra 2,000 steps (about a mile) to usual daily activity and eating 100 fewer calories each day can help prevent weight gain.

Those who join the Bangor Y’s America on the Move team will keep track of their steps during the week of Sept. 23-30 and report back to the Bangor Y at the end of the week.

Individuals who enjoy other forms of physical activity also can be involved. Participants will be provided with an activity-to-steps conversion chart so that any kind of physical activity can count towards helping America on the Move reach its goal of 1 billion steps.

The first 300 people who join the Bangor Y’s America on the Move team will receive the Quick Start Guide, a booklet which contains tips and tools about taking more steps for a healthier lifestyle, a calendar to keep track of your activity and an activity-to-steps conversion chart. All team members will have their name entered into a drawing for a free three-month Bangor Y membership.

The public is invited to join Bangor Y staff for a fun 1-mile walk in the Bangor City Forest to celebrate America on the Move at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25.

Those interested in becoming a part of the Bangor Y America on the Move team should call 941-2808 and ask to speak to Robin Long.