Hit the Bricks Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do we care so much about physical activity?
A: Recent studies have shown that people can greatly improve their health by being more physically active. Most major health organizations recommend that people be at least moderately active for 30 minutes or more on most days of the week, and stay within a healthy weight range.

Q: What is moderate activity?
A: Moderate activity is anything that makes you breathe as hard as you would during a brisk walk. Walking, swimming, bicycle riding, gardening, heavy housework, dancing, and many other fun activities count as moderate activity.

Q: Why does moderate activity like walking count as much as vigorous activity like aerobics?
A: Hit the Bricks is an individual challenge as much as a team event. It is about reaching the goals you set for yourself. We do not want to make people do activities that they do not enjoy or are not fit enough to participate in. We are trying to challenge people to be more active, at their own pace and at whatever they enjoy doing. Some people may not be interested in running marathons or taking aerobics classes, but they can still gain health benefits from whatever activity they enjoy doing. Studies have shown that there are many benefits from moderate levels of activity. You can maintain a healthy weight, increase your energy levels, and lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer by being more active every day. People who are active – whether moderately or vigorously – have a lower risk for disease and disability than people who do not do anything at all.

Q: Why are goal setting and record keeping important?
A: Goal setting and record keeping are important tools for helping people change their behavior. Goal setting allows people to take an honest look at where they are and where they would like to go. Record keeping allows people to monitor progress toward their goals. These two tools have been demonstrated to help people develop a variety of healthy habits, including being more active.

Q: How do I know if I am setting my goals correctly?
A: The purpose of goal setting is to help you improve your habits by challenging yourself. Take a look at what you currently do, and challenge yourself to do a little bit more. Make sure you set goals for yourself that you can reach. Remember that change does not happen overnight. It’s the small steps that get you where you want to go.

Q: Do I have to be active during work?
A: No. People can find time to be active before, during, or after work. They can find active things to do on the weekends, and they can learn ways to work activity into everyday life, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator. For people to be active on a regular basis, they have to find ways to be active that fit with their lifestyles.