Walking is an ideal fitness option for Seniors. It requires little special equipment and it is low impact. You can walk alone, with a friend or with a group. You can go for a walk almost anywhere. Like riding a bicycle, walking can be both recreational and practical. If you are going on an errand, think about walking part way instead of driving.
It is worth investing in good walking shoes. There are many to choose from. Look for sturdy shoes that are also comfortable. In the winter you will want warm boots with good traction. Ice Bug makes boots that have studs in the sole, for extra traction on ice. You can also get metal cleats that can be attached to the bottom of your boots. I encourage you to get out and walk even in the winter! Balance is a concern for all seniors but balance can be improved. I always stand on one foot when I am putting on my socks in the morning. That seems to help!
As with winter riding, winter walking means looking ahead at the weather and being prepared. A warm sweater and a wind and waterproof jacket are a good start! Also consider getting a pair of rain pants. They provide protection from, wind, rain and snow.
For your safety, it is important to be visible, especially at night. I use a rechargeable headlamp and a high visibility vest. You can get a headlamp at most outdoor gear stores. High visibility vests are available online.
I believe that we continue to do healthy things because we enjoy them. I have a friend who walks with me year round. We are both busy so the walks last only about 45 minutes. We usually walk every Thursday morning. Our literary interests overlap so we talk about the books we are reading but also about our lives, politics, history, storytelling and philosophy. Our friendship has deepened over the years, mostly because of the time we spend walking together. Spending time with a friend is one way to enjoy a walk. I also love to take photographs, often of places in Winooski. Almost everyone has a camera on their phone and that is all you need to take good photos. If you keep your eyes open, you will be amazed at how many beautiful things you can see. There is an amazing view of the Green Mountains from the top of Leclair Street and the Winooski River is often quite stunning. There are also clouds to be admired. The photo included in this blog was taken on an Autumn walk in Winooski.
When I walk alone I enjoy memorizing poetry. I have been learning poetry by heart for many years. It helps keep my mind busy while I am walking and it also helps with my memory. Like any muscle, using your memory makes it stronger. I memorize poetry instead of listening to podcasts, recorded books or music. Being plugged into ear buds cuts you off from the environment and is also a safety issue. Being able to hear a car approaching is important. As most of you know I am a bike rider as well as a walker. I strongly believe in sharing recreation paths with pedestrians but when they are walking in the middle of the path, and I am approaching from behind, it is great to be able to give a little ring and have them know I am passing. People who are plugged in often don’t hear me.
When you begin to walk for exercise, avoid an all or nothing attitude. In all areas of fitness people tend to overdo it, get sore and then quit. Start with a short stroll. See if you can do that everyday and as you get stronger, walk longer. Find your own way to enjoy this wonderful activity.
About the Author: Peter Burns is a long-time bike enthusiast, and one of the original year-round bike riders in the greater Burlington area. In addition to writing about walking and biking, Peter teaches a variety of bike workshops. He also works at a group home for people with psychiatric disabilities, teaches classes for the Vermont Humanities Council, teaches swimming at the Burlington YMCA, and is a regular host of Storytelling VT. You can contact Peter at heatofhistory @ gmail.com.