Being physically active is an important part of leading a healthy lifestyle. This doesn’t have to mean long workouts and strenuous exercise. Do something you enjoy….just move!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity can improve health and reduce the risk of premature death in the following ways: 

Walking is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to exercise. Try to work yourself up to 30-60 minutes of walking most days of the week.  Choose the best time for you and try to make it a habit.  Record your efforts and reward yourself! If you are already exercising regularly, pat yourself on the back.  Then consider the following tips to add variety or intensity to your routine:

• Pick up the pace.  Instead of taking longer steps, take faster steps. (Lengthening your stride can increase strain on your feet and legs.)
• Put some swing in your step. Vigorous arm pumping allows for a quicker pace, provides a good workout for your upper body, and burns 5 to 10% more calories. Bend your elbows at 90° and pump from the shoulder. Swing naturally, like you're reaching for your wallet in your back pocket. On the swing forward, your wrist should be near the center of your chest. Keep your wrists straight, your hands unclenched, and elbows close to your sides.
• Add intervals. Speed up for a minute or two every five minutes.
• Try new terrains. Walking on grass, gravel, or sand burns more calories than walking on a track.
• Walk up and down hills to build strength and stamina and burn more calories. When walking uphill, lean forward slightly—it's easier on your leg muscles. Walking downhill can be harder on your body, especially the knees, than walking uphill, and may cause muscle soreness, so slow your pace, keep your knees slightly bent, and take shorter steps.

Looking for ways to sneak more activity into your day? 

• Take a walk during your lunch break
• Take a walk and “catch up” with your spouse, child, or friend
• Park further away from work or the store
• Don’t use the car for short trips – walk or bike instead
• Get outside to mow the lawn or do some weeding
• Walk, run and play actively with your children or grandchildren
• Walk around while you are on the phone. You can add about 100 steps in a five-minute conversation
• Plan a walking meeting
• Take a walking break instead of a coffee break at work
• Take a walk after dinner
• Exercise while watching TV (stationary bicycle/treadmill/stair-climber, stretch, use hand weights)
• Dance to music

Favorite Physical Activity Websites

Coming:  Cumberland Area Walking and Biking maps