Let Purdue Extension help you “Get WalkIN’”

Are you ready to get moving, improve your health, and enjoy life more? Take advantage of the cooler weather and join Get WalkIN’, a free email-based walking program offered through Purdue Extension in Marshall County. Participants can sign up, walk independently, and receive emailed support and information. This program is designed to help individuals learn about the health benefits of walking and encourage them to get moving. The program starts on February 3, and participants should register by January 28th.

Walking is a popular form of physical activity—and it’s good for your health! Only half of all American adults get the recommended amount of physical activity. Lack of physical activity is directly related to the incidence of adult obesity and being overweight. Regular physical activity can lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, depression, and falls in older adults. Walking is an excellent way for most people to increase their physical activity levels. It’s an easy way to start and maintain a physically active lifestyle.

Walking is accessible to nearly everyone, doesn’t require specific skills or abilities, can be done alone or with others, is versatile (i.e., can be performed at any desired 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 be more active but are hesitant to start? Do you find yourself making excuses like, “I don’t have time," "I don’t want to walk alone," or "Where would I walk?” Have you begun walking but lost interest or motivation? Get WalkIN’ is just for you! You will receive emails that offer encouragement, share local walking events and activities, help keep you motivated, provide information about health and wellness, and more! Participants will be asked to complete two short online surveys during the program. Before you know it, you’ll walk, feel better, have more energy, and form 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.