Walking is a natural and effective way to stay active. It improves fitness, health and mental well-being. Walking refreshes the mind, reduces fatigue and increases energy. More than half the body’s muscles are designed for walking; it is a natural movement that is virtually injury-free. Walking provides an enjoyable time for sharing and socializing with friends or family.

Regular, brisk walking can reduce elevated blood fats or blood pressure and improve digestion and elimination. Walking strengthens bones and helps prevent or control osteoporosis. Walking relieves stress and tension. Combined with healthy eating, walking will help maintain a healthy weight and a positive body image. Brisk walking is an aerobic activity. It increases the body’s demand for oxygen and trains the heart, lungs and muscles to work more efficiently.

The pandemic put our two walking programs on hold. The program at PECI had been going for over 30 years and in one day, we had to shut it down. Thinking back on all the things that the pandemic changed can be disheartening. We’re restarting the walking programs, however, and we’re pretty excited about it. What better time to make this announcement than Seniors’ Month in Ontario.

The purpose of Community Care’s walking programs is to provide a safe, supervised, and inexpensive exercise program that promotes healthy living. Seniors who participate are usually interested in the physical benefits and social contacts. Seniors are eligible to join the program if they feel they would benefit from the exercise of walking.

Community Care operates a walking program 5 days a week in Wellington at the Community Centre and at the Prince Edward Collegiate in Picton. These indoor walking programs offer a safe way to get exercise in the winter months and operate from October to May each year.

Restarting these programs means we’re on the search for volunteers who will take attendance at each location and oversee the goings on. It’s a great volunteer opportunity for those who like to walk and are interested in socializing, too. Please call the office and start the conversation if you think this appeals to you.

Call today and get signed up to participate. Call Community Care at 613-476-7493 for more information.