Walkingworks® For Your Health
You might also be interested in:
Put the Power of Blue to Work for You
You know you need to start exercising more but are not sure how to begin. How about starting a walking program? It's easy, and all you need is a pair of sneakers to begin.
Why Walking?
Walking is one of the simplest and safest forms of physical exercise. A regular walking program can help you control your weight, condition your heart and lungs, strengthen your bones, reduce stress, and help you take the first step toward a healthier future. In addition, it can help reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and improve muscle tone.
A walking program is also convenient. You can incorporate walking into your daily routine with little effort- taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further from the door at the grocery store. You can make walking a family activity by taking a walk after dinner.
WalkingWorks®
Our WalkingWorks® program was developed with the help of the President's Council on Physical Fitness to help all Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members walk their way to better health through online tools and resources that encourage you to set and achieve personal wellness goals. It is based on the 10,000 steps-a-day concept that exercise doesn't have to be a rigid, time-consuming activity. As with any exercise program, talk to your doctor first. You doctor can help you develop a regular walking program that works for you and one that is tailored to your physical condition and lifestyle.
Your next step is to go to www.fepblue.org , click on WalkingWorks®, and request a pedometer available to you at no additional charge. Using a pedometer during your walking routine to track all the steps you take throughout the day can help you increase your number of steps. Walkers who use a pedometer usually walk more than 2,000 steps more each day than walkers without pedometers. If you want to make walking a family activity, you can request a pedometer for each family member.
Once you get your pedometer, go online to WalkingWorks® again to access the online Participant Guide. This Guide outlines a 10-week walking program to increase your physical activity and get you started walking. It also provides information about setting goals, and provides a place to track your steps and your progress toward meeting your walking goals.
So talk with your doctor for help determining the right walking program for you and take the first step to living a healthier life now and the future.
Tags:
Page last updated: December 16, 2011