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Independence, MO —
Walking is a great way to start out improving and maintaining your health. Walking is a physical activity that does not require a gym membership or equipment, and best of all it is accessible to just about everyone. Here’s more about why walking is good for you, and how to get started with a walking program.
Walking is a great way to start a new, healthier life. It can help you reach a number of important health goals. Walking can help you manage your weight by burning calories, improving your mood by releasing “feel good” hormones, and staying strong and fit by toning your muscles. All it takes to achieve these benefits is a routine of brisk walking.
According to the Mayo Clinic, research shows that regular brisk walking can reduce the risk of a heart attack by the same amount as a more vigorous exercise, such as jogging.
As you get started, remember to start out slow and easy. If you have not been physically active in awhile, it is better to walk only as far and long as you feel comfortable. You might start out only walking 10-15 minutes and that’s OK, you will be able to work up the strength and stamina to walk for longer periods of time.
The goal is to achieve 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Also, remember that you do not have to get in all 60 minutes at one time; you can space out the minutes throughout the day. For example, over your lunch break, take a 30-minute walk and after dinner take another 30-minute walk.
Set some goals for your new walking routine, but make sure you are realistic about the goals you set. For example, you might start out with a goal of walking 15 minutes a day five days a week for one month. Once you have reached your goal, set a new one for the next month and so on. Starting a new routine takes initiative and commitment, but over time you will see and feel the benefits of walking.
If you are ready to start a new walking routine, come join the Independence Health Department’s “Mile Starts Here” walking group. The walking program is part of the Building a Healthier Independence initiative and takes place Wednesday mornings at 9 am. Every Wednesday the group meets at a rotating schedule of five parks and trails in Independence. The next walk will take place at Clothier Park on July 18.
For more information call the Independence Health Department at 816-325-7185.
*Information provided by Mayoclinic.org and the Independence Health Department
Walking is a great way to start out improving and maintaining your health. Walking is a physical activity that does not require a gym membership or equipment, and best of all it is accessible to just about everyone. Here’s more about why walking is good for you, and how to get started with a walking program.
Walking is a great way to start a new, healthier life. It can help you reach a number of important health goals. Walking can help you manage your weight by burning calories, improving your mood by releasing “feel good” hormones, and staying strong and fit by toning your muscles. All it takes to achieve these benefits is a routine of brisk walking.
According to the Mayo Clinic, research shows that regular brisk walking can reduce the risk of a heart attack by the same amount as a more vigorous exercise, such as jogging.
As you get started, remember to start out slow and easy. If you have not been physically active in awhile, it is better to walk only as far and long as you feel comfortable. You might start out only walking 10-15 minutes and that’s OK, you will be able to work up the strength and stamina to walk for longer periods of time.
The goal is to achieve 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Also, remember that you do not have to get in all 60 minutes at one time; you can space out the minutes throughout the day. For example, over your lunch break, take a 30-minute walk and after dinner take another 30-minute walk.
Set some goals for your new walking routine, but make sure you are realistic about the goals you set. For example, you might start out with a goal of walking 15 minutes a day five days a week for one month. Once you have reached your goal, set a new one for the next month and so on. Starting a new routine takes initiative and commitment, but over time you will see and feel the benefits of walking.
If you are ready to start a new walking routine, come join the Independence Health Department’s “Mile Starts Here” walking group. The walking program is part of the Building a Healthier Independence initiative and takes place Wednesday mornings at 9 am. Every Wednesday the group meets at a rotating schedule of five parks and trails in Independence. The next walk will take place at Clothier Park on July 18.
For more information call the Independence Health Department at 816-325-7185.
*Information provided by Mayoclinic.org and the Independence Health Department
