April 18, 2008

AARP encourages walkers to sign up for free fitness program

“Walking is one of the easiest ways to exercise,” said Cheryl Matheis, AARP Director of Health Strategy. “AARP hopes this program will help people make walking a part of their everyday lives.”

AARP and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) will host one of twenty pilot 10-Week Walking Programs this summer. The free 10-Week Walking Program is part of a broader AARP goal to help prevent illness and keep people well through positive changes to personal behaviors, like exercise and diet.

People interested in registering for the City of San José 10-Week Walking Program can call the City of San José Senior Centers in Evergreen (408) 270-2220. People may also contact the Korean American Community Services at (408) 920-9733 to participate. More information on the 10-Week Walking Program, as well as useful walking tips and online tools, can be found on AARP’s website, www.aarp.org.

Studies have shown that regular walking can help significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, arthritis and even some cancers. Walking programs can also reduce insurance costs, increase employee productivity and promote mental well-being. AARP has found that 74 percent of its members who exercise prefer walking over any other type of physical activity.

The AARP-NRPA 10-Week Walking Program will help participants find safe places to walk, and provide tools and support to help them take personal responsibility for their health, and stick with their exercise plans. Each participant will receive a free step counter and guidebook, and be invited to sign up for a walking group and weekly educational sessions on fitness and nutrition.