walking together

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LET'S FACE IT -WHEN IT COMES TO EXERCISE, WE COULD ALL USE SOME EXTRA MOTIVATION. WHY NOT GATHER FRIENDS TO WALK WITH YOU?

1 I recently made an interesting discovery. Without the women in my walking group, exercise is a complete drag. Ever since I smartened up to the benefits of exercise, I've been a regular at my local gym, usually wearing a path on the treadmill. After several years, I reached a point when I had absolutely no willpower to continuenot because I hated to work out, but because I was simply bored. I fell into the trap that keeps so many people from physical activity: lack of variety.

So when a lady at my church suggested walking together, I gratefully accepted. As I began sharing with others how much I enjoyed these walks and talks, I found more people who wanted to join in as well. In no time at all, I became part of a fullfledged walking group and gained a newfound energy for exercising.

supporting each other

"Support system" are not words I would have once used in association with my physical fitness. I assumed I had the self-discipline to get in shape. Boy, was I wrong. The women I walk with have become a critical motivating force in my life. Not only do they encourage me on days when Fd rather be lying on the couch, but they also inspire me mentally and spiritually. As we exercise, we pass the time by telling about our days, venting frustrations, sharing victories, discussing problems, or just laughing. I can always feel the tension slip away during our walks together.

how to get started

Find walking partners by considering people you enjoy spending time with. As you choose exercise companions, approach people who are at your same fitness level. Someone who runs half marathons may not be suited for a walking group. Consider friends and coworkers whose schedules are similar to yours. Another great option is joining an established walking group. A local YMCA, recreation center, or hospital wellness program can lead you in the right direction. For a listing of some local walking clubs, visit the American Volkssport Association's Web site at www.ava.org.

when and where

Once you've found others interested in walking, establish specific times when you can get together. My group makes an effort to exercise about four times a week, though everyone can't always be there every time. But that's okay-it keeps our time together interesting. The changing group dynamic offers a chance to get to know different people a bit better.

When deciding where to go, be sure to walk in places where you feel safe-especially if you're out at night. Avoid wooded walking trails after sundown, and opt for a lit track or neighborhood. Spice up your routine by alternating where you walk and even the route you take. One week you might hit the walking trail, and the next trek around the mall.

Whether I meet my friends early in the morning before my busy day begins or after work when I'm craving a much-needed energy boost, I look forward to the time I spend with this group every week. They truly keep me motivated. CINDY RIEGLE

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jan 2005
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