Developing Healthy Living Habits

Interview with Dylan, Transition to Life Participant

Dylan spoke with his coach, Erin, about strategies he uses for maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. 

• What activities do you do to stay active during the week?

I am usually involved in Special Olympics sports. I do exercise like biking, going on the treadmill, using weights, dancing, and walking.

For my job, I am also active as I work indoors or outdoors on physical tasks.

• What are some healthy habits that you’ve developed (exercise, eating, etc.)?

I exercise 5 times a week and I track my steps on my Fitbit. I do have a cap or goal on my Fitbit, when I get up to 6,000 steps, I am happy but I prefer to do 10,000 per day if I can.

Sometimes it’s harder to gain steps, if it is rainy or cold out, I may have less.

I like to eat a lot of vegetables and fruits in my diet. I do eat gluten free snacks often as well.

• Tell me about your involvement with Special Olympics.

I am involved in Floor Hockey, Bowling during the Fall and Winter, Golf and Baseball, during the Spring and Summer. I am looking forward to starting Curling in an upcoming Winter.

These activities are on pause during the pandemic.

• How have you been able to stay in touch with friends at this time?

That’s an easy one! First of all, I meet up with my Hockey Team on Zoom. Our coordinator updates us on the sports and when they may be able to start up again. For fun, we actually do Trivia Games. 

• Why is it important for you to connect socially with others? How is this a part of your healthy living lifestyle?

I like to make sure that everyone is doing well and staying safe. For me, I like to spend time with my team so we can stay in touch, develop friendship, continue our team spirit and keep trying new things together.

By playing sports with other people, it is way more fun!