Step 2 to LIVE LIFE BETTER

WHY IS WALKING THE SECOND STEP? Walking requires little time, and research as shown that walking can be more beneficial and more effective to overall health than extensive running. WALKING IS SO BENEFICIAL BECAUSE IT: 1. Is easy on the bones and joints 2. Increases stamina and improves mobility 3. Expands heart and cardiovascular functions 4. Reduces stress 5. Improves mental alertness and function 6. Assists in weight loss and toning 7. Promotes proper organ function. WALKING ELIMINATES THE BLUES--Walking can lead to the release of endorphins--the body's own natural, mood-enhancing chemicals. Many physicians recommend adding daily walking as a natural treatment to chase away the blues. DID YOU KNOW? Walking has the power to reverse the aging process and safeguard your heart. As you age, your arteries lose up to 60 percent of their elasticity, leading to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Regular walking triggers the release of substances that improves the overall condition of arteries and increases their flexibility. "Researchers have found that walking alone can improve artery elasticity up to 35 percent. One study monitored 24 sedentary postmenopausal women, ages 60 plus, walking 40 minutes a day, 5 days a week. After 12 weeks, these women improved the elasticity of their arteries to the condition of someone 28 years old. " --Dr. Kerrie Moreau, University of Colorado DIGGING DEEP: How many minutes are you walking each day? What are some things you can do to increase this amount? Keep track and increase your distance each week.