Having the ability to walk
safely and confidently around the house and around your neighborhood is a
hallmark of independent living. Walking
is one of the simplest exercises that
you can do, and one of the most effective. I meet older
people walking around my neighborhood every single day. Some of them are walking
their dogs, some are walking with friends, and others are power walking on
their own. Walking is easy enough that people can smile
and say hello without missing a beat. Walking is such an enjoyable sport that it makes you wonder why
everyone isn’t doing it. What is everyone else doing?
Surely everyone knows by now
that walking and independent living go hand in hand. Not
only is walking good for the heart and lungs but it tunes up the rest of the
body. Walking is simple. Get out of bed
in the morning; lace up a good pair of shoes and put one foot in front of the
other. Is it too easy to make an
impression? There must be some reason why everyone isn’t out there.
What is that keeps older people from walking for the health of it? James M. Rippe, M.D.
has written books on the walking that you may or may not be familiar with. He
feels that it isn’t that people can’t walk but that they chose not to; they
would rather sit on the coach and watch other people engage in physical
activities. Poor excuse don’t you think?
Read and decide for yourself: (www.amazon.com/James-M.-Rippe).
Not only is walking good for you’re your overall health and well being but it will likely decrease the likelihood of
falling.
Do you feel it is too hard
to walk fast enough or sure enough to derive any benefits from it? Some people have gait problems. Chronic
diseases, surgical procedures, or lengthy rehabilitation periods may figure in,
but it is more apt to be from lack of practice. Do you think you might like to
start a walking program? It doesn’t have to be intimidating. It is okay to start slowly or ask a grandchild
to hold your arm until you feel confidence enough to try it on your own. Splurge on a good pair of walking shoes, and find a safe place to
walk (a stretch of even sidewalk or a walking trail is good). A bench or a picnic area where you can take
a breather and sip from your water bottle is a nice addition too. If you are having a good time you may forget
that you need enough stamina to get back home. Walk every day until you can do
30 minute, and feel proud of your accomplishment.
Hip or knee injuries or
arthritis may slow you down a bit but your doctor is still going to recommend
walking or water exercises as a part of your rehabilitation program. Use your walker a cane or walking poles if you
need a little something to help with balance.
The only thing that will keep you from reaping the benefits of walking
is you.
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