WALKING TRAILS IN OUR COMMUNITY Local Trails Offer Free Fitness Story by Cindy Reid
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s 2022 arrives, many of us include getting fit as a goal in the New Year. There is literally no easier—or more enjoyable—way to get started than to get walking! Walking is the perfect way to increase your activity level and, as an added bonus, it’s absolutely free of charge. Walking is a good way to start getting active if you’ve been inactive, and most people experience positive changes in their health and mood soon after starting a regular walking routine. This can bring additional benefits, including lowered blood pressure and help in maintaining a healthy weight. It’s an exercise with a
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low risk of injury. In fact, walking can strengthen muscles and bones. All it requires is comfortable clothes, decent weather, good sneakers, and a safe place to walk. You can make it fun by exploring new places and walking with a friend or pet. Some people like indoor walks—like a mall walk—but most people enjoy finding an outdoor area to stretch their legs and connect with nature. A walk requires little to no planning, but safety is important. So take your phone and ID with you and let someone know your walking time and route. Hydration is also vitally important so don’t forget to bring a full water bottle on the trail. Many
