… begins with one step!
Clik here to view.
You work hard to maintain your good health. Tranquil, your Guelph Health Centre, offers acupuncture to maintain balance, therapeutic massage to help you stay limber, and chiropractic care to align you.
Many of us are busy people; between work, home, personal, and kids’ schedules, it’s often hard to fit in fitness and family time. One of the best ways to stay active ~ and connected to family and friends ~ is to get outside and walk!
Whether it’s a tour through your neighbourhood, a stroll through a city park, or a hike on a beautiful forest trail, walking is one of the best of exercise. And it’s easy to get started!
Check out the trails right here in Guelph and, for company and guidance, you can check out the Guelph Hiking Trail Club. The Bruce Trail offers beautiful and scenic routes suited to all levels of hiking experience. In our own backyard, you can hike The Forks of the Credit and visit Conservation Halton to learn more about their parks.
In Wellington County, the Grand River Conservation Authority has converted kilometers of abandoned rail lines to beautiful walking trails which are groomed and maintained. These “rail-trails” are surfaced with fine gravel so provide a wonderful accessible opportunity for wheelchairs and strollers. You can find more information about the many trails in Grand River here.
As with any form of physical activity, it’s important to remember a few tips:
- Always check with your health care professional prior to starting any new physical activities including Walking
- Do your research and bring a map. Most conservation authorities provide trail maps or you can print one from their website. (Smartphones don’t always get reception on trails so best not to count on them as your only guide!)
- Wear sturdy footwear ~ no need to spend a fortune on shoes but good treads with instep and ankle support are important. If you’re not sure about what footwear is best for you, Dr Phil McAllister at Tranquil will advise you on appropriate footwear for your individual needs
- Stay hydrated! Even in cool weather, this is critical so ensure you bring a reusable water bottle
- Keep your calories up! If you’re tackling a longer hike, pack one or two protein bars to keep your energy up and metabolism charged
- Dress the part! Layering has long been recommended; removing and adding layers during your activity helps you to regulate to your body’s and the outside conditions
- Nordic Walking is walking with ‘ski poles’ and incorporates your whole body for a great ‘full body’ workout
- Take only memories and photographs and leave only footprints: this is an age-old adage and will ensure that trails, parks, and neighbourhoods stay healthy for generations to come
- Do it! Don’t wait for the perfect day or the right moment … get started! If that means a short stroll after dinner then that’s a great start
The most important thing to remember is that being active and staying healthy doesn’t require a monthly fee or a huge investment. Just by taking 20 – 30 minutes each day to focus on your breath and your body, you can achieve and maintain great health. Enjoy the peace and serenity of nature on a trail or a brisk walk through the vibrancy of the city. Walking is inexpensive, fantastic for your physical and mental health, and one of the best ways to spend time staying healthy with loved ones.
