Consistent exercise is an important element in maintaining ones overall health, and a brisk walk every day is something many of us can do to feel better. But as great as walking is on its own, it’s even better when you’re accompanied by a group of friendly people.
Eskenazi Health’s new Wellness Walks initiative provides opportunities for patients, their family and community neighbors to engage with Eskenazi Health providers and staff members. The leisurely walks are a great way to connect health care teams with the communities they serve and are open to all fitness levels. The walks last between 20-45 minutes. Distance covered depends on each participant’s level of comfort.
Eskenazi Health has hosted a series of Wellness Walks over the past month and will soon announce additional opportunities to walk and talk with Eskenazi Health providers and additional personnel. For dates and details about the Eskenazi Health Center Wellness Walks, please visit eskenazihealth.edu/events.
Walking is the most popular physical activity among adults, and it’s easy to see why. It requires no special clothes or equipment, and best of all . . . it’s free!
Regular walking can provide many health benefits that include lowering your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. It can strengthen your bones and muscles, and it might also help lift your mood.
Make walking fun by going to places you enjoy, like a shopping center or park. Bring along someone to chat with, or listen to some of your favorite music (but keep the volume low enough to hear the sounds around you).
Think about safety as you plan when and where to walk. Walk with others when possible, and take a phone and ID with you. Let someone know your walking time and route. If it’s dark outside, wear a reflective vest or brightly colored clothing, and always be aware of your surroundings.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), walking is a great way to get the physical activity needed to obtain a variety of health benefits. Walking does not require any special skills. It also does not require a gym membership or expensive equipment. A single session of moderate-to-vigorous walking can improve sleep, memory, and the ability to think and learn. It also reduces anxiety symptoms.
CDC research states that more than 145 million adults now include walking as part of a physically active lifestyle. More than 6 in 10 people walk for transportation or for fun, relaxation, or exercise, or for activities such as walking the dog. The percentage of people who report walking at least once for 10 minutes or more in the previous week rose from 56% (2005) to 62% (2010).
The CDC reports that physical activity helps control weight, but it also has other benefits. Physical activity such as walking can help improve health even without weight loss. People who are physically active live longer and have a lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and some cancers. Improving spaces and having safe places to walk can help more people become physically active.
For older adults, the CDC states regular physical activity such as walking is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others.
Keep in mind, some physical activity is always better than none at all, and your health benefits will also increase with the more physical activity you do.
For more information about available programs offered at Eskenazi Health, please visit: www.eskenazihealth.edu.
Nydia Nunez-Estrada, M.D.
Family Medicine Specialist at Eskenazi Health Center North Arlington