By Kari Richie, Health and Fitness Director
Kari Richie, Springmoor Health and Fitness Director
Each year the Springmoor community works together to reach a community goal. This year’s challenge is to “Walk Around the World” in one year, accumulating mileage each month as we “walk” to various destinations around the globe. We started in Raleigh, NC and during the month of March we accomplished 3,600 miles to reach our destination – Dublin, Ireland! We are now half way to our next destination, Nairobi, Kenya. Each month we have entertainment, excursions and walking opportunities that tie in the countries to which we are traveling.
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise! With this challenge, we are not only encouraging walking, but ALL types of physical activity. The residents and employees are tracking the time they spend exercising; whether it’s walking, taking a fitness class, using the exercise machines or swimming. The individual efforts are combined to help us reach our community goal each month!
Walking briskly for 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, arthritis and some cancers. Here are a few more reasons why we should walk:
Walking promotes physical activity. Studies have shown that people who are physically active live longer and feel better. It’s never too late to start being active. Walking is a great way to get moving.
Walking boosts brain power. Walking improves your ability to make decisions, solve problems and focus. Even short walks, like a 15-minute trek, can increase your brain power.
Walking aids in long-lasting weight management. Everyone’s metabolism tends to slow over time and a slower metabolism can lead to weight gain. Walking burns calories and fights unwanted pounds. A healthy weight lowers your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Walking requires only a modest investment of time and money. When pressed for time, walking for 30 minutes a day can be split up into shorter sessions of two 15-minute walks or three 10-minute walks. You don’t need fancy gear or equipment to walk; you just need a good pair of shoes.
Set a goal or destination and start walking today. It’s never too late to start, and you can make it fun by including family and friends. Some fun ways to walk include signing up for a 5K and training to walk with someone, setting a mileage goal for a period of time, or getting involved in a community training group. Have fun and step into an active lifestyle!
To find out more about fitness opportunities at Springmoor, call us at 919-234-7626.
