Well it is now mid-June and the walking season is among us! I am happy to see so many businesses in central and southwest Iowa participating in Wellmark's Walking Works program. This is a great program to get people motivated and moving. And...if you have a competitive streak, a great way to challenge each other. The pedometers are also a huge hit. Pedometers are a great way to log your steps, miles, and calories burned. Remember--the goal to shoot for is 10,000 steps a day. I know that may seem lofty, but if you work up to it, you can do it!
On a personal note, I've been walking consistently for quite some time. Back in college and for a couple years after, I was a runner. In the past couple years I've fallen off the running wagon, but I recently began training to run in the Des Moines Half Marathon in October. It will be tough, but I can do it. Wish me luck!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Runners: Time to Change Shoes?
A quality pair of running shoes is runner's most important piece of equipment.
Good running shoes can go a long way in preventing the aches and pains associated with running, but running shoes can handle only so much before they begin to break down. The most any shoe should have on it is 500 miles. One way to tell if a shoe’s running days are over is if the outside of the midsole becomes noticeably wrinkly. No need to throw those old running shoes out though, as a shoe that is no longer fit for running can still be used for walking or everyday use.
Good running shoes can go a long way in preventing the aches and pains associated with running, but running shoes can handle only so much before they begin to break down. The most any shoe should have on it is 500 miles. One way to tell if a shoe’s running days are over is if the outside of the midsole becomes noticeably wrinkly. No need to throw those old running shoes out though, as a shoe that is no longer fit for running can still be used for walking or everyday use.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Walking Indoors
Let's face it - the weather outside lately hasn't really been cooperative for outdoor exercise.
When outside is cold and wet outside, there are options for walking indoors:
When outside is cold and wet outside, there are options for walking indoors:
- Indoor tracks: Check your local YMCA, college, or recreation center. My husband and I walked on the track at our YMCA this weekend because it was raining.
- Walk the mall: Many malls are open early hours for mall walkers and some have organized programs.
- Back to school: Some communities open up their gym or hallways for walkers.
- At the office: Look for a walking loop at the place you work.
Check the Wellness Resources at www.wellmark.com/communitywellness for more ideas. So rain is no longer an excuse!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Sign up for a 5K
I ran my first 5K race in 2 years this past weekend - the Dam to Dam 5K in downtown Des Moines. It was tough, but I completing the race was my first step toward walking/running the Des Moines half marathon in October. Next on my list - a 10K race in my hometown in August. Time to start upping the mileage.
Thinking about signing up to run or walk a race? There's tons of options - and whether it is a charity run for a great cause or a race close to home, registering for an event and training for it will help you stay motivated and moving toward your fitness goals.
Find local walking events on Wellmark's Wellness Calendar. For Iowans, another great resources is the Race Calendar on the Web site of Des Moines running outfitter Fitness Sports.
Thinking about signing up to run or walk a race? There's tons of options - and whether it is a charity run for a great cause or a race close to home, registering for an event and training for it will help you stay motivated and moving toward your fitness goals.
Find local walking events on Wellmark's Wellness Calendar. For Iowans, another great resources is the Race Calendar on the Web site of Des Moines running outfitter Fitness Sports.
Walking Events
Check out the link below to find walking resources in your area. The Wellness Calendar has individual walking events like Relay for Life. The Wellness Resources tab has walking trails and walking clubs you can join. Enjoy!
http://www.wellmark.com/e_business/member/Whole_Health_Dimensions/WHD_overview.htm
http://www.wellmark.com/e_business/member/Whole_Health_Dimensions/WHD_overview.htm
Walking Buddy
Do you have a walking buddy? A great way to stay motivated to walk is to have some to KEEP you motivated. Having a walking partner will help you stay accountable to your walking goals.
Currently, I have two walking buddies; my wife and my dog. Both give me the sad eyes when I don't feel like walking. They get their way everytime.
Currently, I have two walking buddies; my wife and my dog. Both give me the sad eyes when I don't feel like walking. They get their way everytime.
Global Vet Link
Global Vet Link, located in Ames, Iowa, participated in National Walk at Lunch Day. Despite the weather, they put on their walking shoes and walked their way to success!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Walking Works: Ready, Set, Step Seminar
Are you ready to start your walking program? Get all the details from proper gear to proper stride in this seminar. Bring your walking shoes and get started immediately! A free nutrition seminar to follow.
When: June 30th, 2009
Time: 5:00-6:00 pm
Where: Altoona Hy-Vee
108 8th St SW, Altoona, Iowa
When: June 30th, 2009
Time: 5:00-6:00 pm
Where: Altoona Hy-Vee
108 8th St SW, Altoona, Iowa
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