Let Purdue Extension help you ‘Get WalkIN’’

Are you ready to get moving, improve your health and enjoy life more? Get WalkIN’ is a free email-based walking program being offered through Purdue Extension in Putnam County.

Participants can sign up, walk on their own and receive emailed support and information. It is designed to encourage individuals to learn more about the health benefits of walking and individuals to get moving.

Walking is a popular form of physical activity - and good for your health. Only half of all American adults get the recommended amount of physical activity. Lack of physical activity is directly related to the occurrence of adult obesity and overweight. Regular physical activity can lower risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, depression and falls in older adults. Walking is an excellent way for most people to increase their physical activity. It is an easy way to start and maintain a physically active lifestyle.

Walking is accessible to almost anyone, doesn’t require specific skills or abilities to perform, can be performed alone or with others and is adaptable (i.e., can be performed at any chosen intensity and is inexpensive). Walking can serve many purposes. It can be a way to exercise, have fun or get to school, work or other nearby destinations.

Do you know that you need to get more active but lack the initiative to get started? Do you make excuses like, “I do not have time,” “I don’t want to walk alone” or “Where would I walk?” Have you started to walk and lost interest or motivation? Get WalkIN’ is just for you. You will receive emails that provide encouragement, motivation, information about health and wellness and more.

For more details or to register, contact Abbi Smith at asmith22@purdue.edu. Participants must be 18 years or older but do not have to reside in Putnam County. Before you know it, you will be walking, feeling better, having more energy and have a new healthy habit.

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or contact the local Purdue Extension Office at 653-8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs.

Upcoming Events

Aug. 23 – Bite by Bite podcast “A Dive into Nutrition and Fitness” launches, listen at https://anchor.fm/bitebybite or any listening app

Sept. 1 – My Record of 4-H Achievement and Junior Leader 4-H manuals due

Sept. 5 – Canning Garden Vegetables, Putnam County Fairgrounds, 7 p.m.

Sept. 5 – Get WalkIN’ emails begin, email asmith22@purdue.edu to register by Sept. 1

Sept. 11 – ServSafe food manager course and exam, register at https://cvent.me/l8DXv2

Sept. 18 – Home food preservation workshop, Parke County Fairgrounds, $15, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., RSVP required at 765-569-3176