This year we’ve made the commitment to get outside for more physical activity. Since we’re older, that physical activity comes mostly in the form of walking. Not only are we getting beneficial exercise, but we’re getting natural vitamin D from the sun and fresh air into our lungs. Walking outside is a win-win when it comes to healthy physical activities.
You can walk around your neighborhood or check out some of the community parks near your home. We live in the suburbs so we have around a dozen different parks we can visit. The majority of those community parks have paved walkways for walkers to enjoy. At my age…I can’t be hiking or walking on uneven ground. Nope, no way. I’m not stumbling or falling.
When visiting a local park I do recommend that you go prepared. You should always walk with a friend or partner, don’t walk alone. Second, wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring along your cellphone (for emergency calls), a bottle of water, sunscreen and some bug spray. Those are just a few essentials that you’ll need.
Make a commitment to get outside to walk at least twice a week…then move it up to 3-4 times a week as your physical fitness improves. Put together a little walking group in your neighborhood so that no one is walking alone and to movitate each other to get out there! Walking is one of the best exercises for your body and highly recommended by doctors everywhere.