Join AARP for a Few Walks Around the Block
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-01-18 11:54:00-05:00
Who knew that walking briskly at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, could dramatically improve your health?
Walking is one of the easiest ways to exercise, and research has shown that regular walking can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, arthritis and even some cancers.
Not only that, but walking just 30 minutes or more each day is something most of us can do almost anywhere, and for the most part, it's safe, easy and cost effective.
So why don't more of us do it?
There are lots of reasons given, but those who succeed in walking regularly have generally found a way to make it part of a regular routine. In many cases, they have started with some kind of walking program—either with a friend, or as a part of a larger group.
AARP, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and the Bend Parks & Recreation Department have teamed up to offer AARP’s free 10-Week Walking Program to individuals in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson Counties starting in April, 2007.
There are two places to join in the fun and to start walking your way to better health.
Bend Senior Center
1600 SE Reed Market Road
Bend, OR 97702
April 12 Kick-Off: 2 p.m.
St. Charles Medical Center
Health & Learning Department
2500 NE Neff Road
Bend, OR 97701
April 18 Kick-Off: 6 p.m.
To register call AARP’s toll-free Event Registration 1-877-926-8300. Be sure to sign up for a specific location either Bend Senior Center or St. Charles Medical Center.
Participants will receive a free Step-Counter and Participant Guide. They can also sign up for a walking group, and are invited to attend 10 free weekly educational sessions on fitness, nutrition and building healthy behaviors.
For more information on how to start a program in your community, contact Gretchen Jordan at (503)513-7360 or via e-mail.
Other Resources
- The Numerous Benefits of Walking
- Make Walking a Way of Life
- Walking Techniques to Keep up the Pace
- Resources for Walkers
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