Neighborwalk

       

NeighborWalk Program
	The NeighborWalk program encourages Boston residents of all ages to be physically active by providing support for organized walking groups. Chronic Disease Prevention and Control Division staff can help new or ongoing walk groups in: Mapping out walking routes  Training group leaders in recruiting, retaining, and motivating walkers; keeping safe while walking; helping walkers to get the most health benefits; and related health education topics Providing walk leader resource materials Providing pedometers and resource materials for walkers. Walking with your group to give walkers tips on safe, healthy walking Providing occasional workshops on related health and wellness issues  “Those of us who walk have a great time, even in the rain! Also, the fact that we sponsor a walking group opens up the conversation about healthy lifestyles, even for patients or staff who don’t walk regularly.” Abigail Ortiz, Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center
Health Benefits Gained From Walking Regularly
	The evidence is in - walking is good for you! While there may not be any magic bullet for health, research shows that taking a brisk 30 to 60 minute walk most days can help prevent or manage many health conditions.  Integrating walking in your daily routine has many benefits: Reduces risk of coronary heart disease and stroke Lowers blood pressure Reduces high cholesterol Reduces body fat Enhances mental well-being Increases bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis Reduces risk of breast and colon cancer Reduces risk of non insulin-dependent diabetes Helps to control body weight Reduces symptoms of osteoarthritis Improves flexibility and coordination Builds energy Helps build and maintain bones, muscles, and joints Reduces stress Tones and strengthens muscles Improves sleep habits Even better, it’s easy, free, and accessible - right out your front door!  “Since the group started two years ago, I have begun looking forward to lunch as a time to get outside and exercise. I always thought of my lunch hour as a time to relax. I have learned from the group that a walk around Jamaica Pond does in fact help me relax and refocus for the rest of the day.” Christine Forget, Nurse For more information about walking, go to Healthy Messages.
	Looking for Walking Opportunities? Click here to see Spring/Summer 2009 walking groups. Want to register your walking group? Download a registration form here Word / PDF
	Electronic NeighborWalk Log All registered NeighborWalk groups are required to fill out a weekly electronic walking log. The Walk Log provides an on-going progress summary of walking groups. How many people are walking, how many walks per week, and who’s walking (adults, youth, and females). Instructions on how to fill out the electronic log here.