Good Health is a Shoe-In

“Hey Imelda, new pair of shoes?” And such is the way I am greeted at another Sunday morning walk with my New Albany Walking Club workout buddies.

Let me be clear. Imelda Marcos is not my role model. She is a collector of shoes, all of which epitomize fashion. I, on the other hand, make my shoe purchases with an emphasis on function. OK, a little bit of neon isn’t all that obnoxious.

During the warmer months, I may cover 50-60 miles per week on the roads and paths in the New Albany community. To traverse this distance, I need to make sure the feet that support and propel my upper body mass function at optimum level. After all, my excursion toward promoting a healthy body and mind is dependent on my ability to keep the pistons that are positioned at the bottom of my extremities well-maintained.

My owner’s manual recommends that my athletic shoes supply my feet with support, flexibility and stability. When these conditions are present, I am able to conduct my workouts in a manner that is conducive to promoting my overall health. For me, proper shoes enhance the well-being of my feet, and that keeps me healthy.

Among stories and features in this issue of our publication is an interview with central Ohio podiatrist Dr. Alan Block, who provides pointers on ways to protect the feet from injury, including tips on selecting the right athletic shoe for specific activities.

Wellness initiatives in the New Albany-Plain Local Schools are emphasized as faculty and staff promote physical activity through programs such as the Peace Week 5K run and walk.

Be sure to check out our Five for Fitness feature that focuses on fun activities that get kids’ feet, as well as their upper bodies, moving.

This issue of Healthy New Albany Magazine is not just about physical activity. Don’t miss the many other articles, one of which is an excellent piece written by Rhonda Koulermos, a New Albany resident. Rhonda provides an in-depth look at one local family’s successful quest to overcome the struggles associated with having a child who is autistic. What an inspiring story!

Happy reading and remember, keep moving. It’s great exercise for your body and your mind.

Healthfully,

Phil Heit, Executive Editor

March 1-4