Spring is in the air and it is time to get out and enjoy some outdoor activities. Let’s kick of spring with Wellness Walks. Please join me on Mondays, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM at Barlow Community Center in Hudson to walk the paved ¾ mile loop around the ponds behind the Center. The community center is located across from the Fire Department at 41 S. Oviatt St. This location will allow the flexibility of schedules and abilities. Walk for the hour or for an amount of time that is best for you. We will start with a 6 week commitment of April 11 – May 16. We will meet on the sidewalk to the right of the building. In case you need some incentive, here are some proven benefits of walking according to the Arthritis Foundation:

12 Benefits of Walking
“What’s not to like about walking? It’s free. It’s easy to do, and it’s easy on the joints. And there’s no question that walking is good for you. Walking is an aerobic exercise; a University of Tennessee study found that women who walked had less body fat than those who didn’t walk. It also lowers the risk of blood clots, since the calf acts as a venous pump, contracting and pumping blood from the feet and legs back to the heart, reducing the load on the heart. Walking is good for you in other ways as well:”

For the full article go to:
http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/exercise/workouts/walking/wow-of-walking.php

1. Walking improves circulation.
2. Walking helps your bones.
3. Walking leads to a longer life.
4. Walking lightens mood.
5. Walking can lead to weight loss.
6. Walking strengthens muscles.
7. Walking improves sleep.
8. Walking supports your joints.
9. Walking improves your breathing.
10. Walking slows mental decline.
11. Walking lowers Alzheimer’s risk.
12. Walking helps you do more, longer