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Let Purdue Extension help you “Get WalkIN'

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 11:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

Are you ready to take a step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle? Embrace the refreshing fall weather and join the Get WalkIN program! This free e-mail-based walking program, offered by Purdue Extension in Marshall County, Indiana, is your gateway to improved health and vitality. Signing up allows you to walk at your own pace and receive valuable e-mail support and information. The program, starting on October 14, is designed to educate you about the health benefits of walking and inspire you to get moving. Don't miss out-register by October 11th!

Walking is not just a popular form of physical activity, it's a health booster! Did you know that only half of all American adults get the recommended amount of physical activity? This lack of activity is directly linked to adult obesity and overweight. However, regular walking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, depression, and falls in older adults. The best part? Walking is an easy and adaptable way for most people to increase their physical activity. It's a simple and cost-effective way to kickstart and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Walking is accessible to almost anyone, doesn’t require specific skills or abilities to perform, can be performed alone or with others, is adaptable (i.e., can be performed at any chosen intensity, and is inexpensive), and can serve many purposes. It can be a way to exercise, have fun, or get to school, work, or other nearby destinations. Making walking easier can help communities by improving safety, social cohesion, and local economies and reducing air pollution.

Do you know you need to get more active but lack the initiative to get started?  Do you make excuses like “I do not have time, I don’t want to walk alone, or where would I walk?” Have you started to walk and lost interest or motivation?  Get WalkIN’ is just for you! You will receive e-mails encouraging and sharing local walking events and activities, which will help keep you motivated and provide information about health and wellness, among more! Participants will be asked to complete two short online surveys during the program. Before you know it, you will walk, feel better, have more energy, and have a new healthy habit!

For more details, contact Karen Richey at 574-935-8545 or email krichey@purdue.edu. To register, send your name and email to marshces@purdue.edu or call 574-935-8545.