The Total Body Benefit of Walking

  As a bonified senior citizen and an avid walker, I can attest to the benefits of going on those daily walks.  Walking, for me at least, clears the cobwebs from my mind helps to put my thoughts into perspective, and clears the way for problem-solving.  Below are some things that you'll receive in the form of benefits from walking.  You're Never Too Old!

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Lose Body Fat: Walking helps burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. It’s a gentle yet effective way to manage body fat levels.

2. Heart Health: Regular brisk walking contributes to cardiovascular fitness. It strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.

3. Muscle Strength and Flexibility: Walking engages various muscle groups, enhancing strength and flexibility. It’s particularly beneficial for maintaining strong leg muscles and improving overall mobility.

4. Fall Prevention: Walking helps improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Strong leg muscles and better stability contribute to fall prevention.

5. Bone Health: Weight-bearing activities like walking stimulate bone density, crucial for preventing osteoporosis and maintaining healthy bones.

6. Mental Well-Being: Walking outdoors provides fresh air, sunlight, and a change of scenery. It can alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress, promoting better mental health.

7. Social Interaction: Walking with friends, family, or in group settings fosters social connections. It’s an opportunity to engage in conversations and build relationships.

8. Improved Sleep: Regular physical activity, including walking, positively impacts sleep quality. Seniors who walk tend to experience better sleep patterns.

9. Boosted Immune System: Staying active supports immune function. Walking helps keep the immune system robust and ready to defend against illnesses.

10. Interval Training: Alternating brisk and leisurely walking (interval training) offers additional benefits. It improves cardiovascular fitness and burns more calories than regular walking.

Remember, good posture and purposeful movements are essential during your walks. Keep your head up, swing your arms freely, and maintain a smooth stride from heel to toe. Get fitted for a good walking shoe it makes a big difference.

Stay Healthy

M.N.Curry

tutera.com4hsph.harvard.edu5thecaregiverspace.org

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You're Never Too Old to Exercise

  Staying active is important for older adults to maintain their health and independence. Here are some tips to help them stay motivated to exercise:

 -Make it fun: Try to find ways to make exercise enjoyable and interesting. Some people like to walk on a treadmill at the gym, while others find that kind of activity boring. Be creative and try new activities to keep your interest alive. Do things you enjoy but pick up the pace. Do all four types of exercise — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. The variety helps keep things interesting!

- Find ways to fit exercise into your day: You are more likely to exercise if it’s a convenient part of your day. Try exercising first thing in the morning or combine physical activity with a task that’s already part of your day, such as walking the dog or doing household chores.

- Make exercise a social activity: Many people agree that an “exercise buddy” keeps them going. Take a walk during lunch with coworkers or try a dance class — salsa, tango, square dancing — it’s up to you. Use family gatherings as a time to play team sports or do outdoor activities.

- Keep track of your exercise progress: The best way to stay motivated is to measure and celebrate your successes. Make an exercise and physical activity plan that works for you and track your daily physical activity. Find new ways to increase your physical activity and keep track of your monthly progress to see improvement.  If you need any inspiration, google Dick Van Dyke who as of now is 97 years old and has some good advice for you to stay active.

Stay Healthy

M.N.Curry