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If you think walking’s limited to strolling around the block, think again. Sure,
it’s great that your “athletic facility” can be your neighborhood streets
or local park, but the sport of walking offers much more. You can join a walking group,
hike a far-off trail, do an event, or compete. Walk on a track, in a mall, on a
treadmill.
Groups
Walking alone has its merits, but hooking up with fellow walkers adds to your fun. Want a
workout buddy? Looking for nice places to walk? Events to do? The American Volkssport
Association (http://www.ava.org/index.htm),
which promotes non-competitive walking, is one resource. It offers a route guide for walks
throughout the U.S., has more than 500 clubs nationwide, and maintains a calendar of
events. Another source: the Walking Club organized by the web site Women.com
(http://www.women.com/clubs/walking.html). It features a message board, live
chats, and a Q&A.
Travel
Take a walking vacation anywhere in the world. There’s no better way to explore an
area, delve into local culture, and get a workout. Some walking-trip outfitters:
- http://www.walkingconnection.com
(also has walking tips and a good list of links to other walking sites);
- http://www.backroads.com. (also offers
bike and multi-sport trips); and
- http://www.butterfield.com (also has
bike trips).
Events
Just about every town puts on a running race or fun run, and many include a walking event
or category. If not, just walk the regular race. You’ll meet people,
discover a new route, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. If you get hooked on competition,
check out race walking. (Visit USA Track and Field’s walking homepage,
http://www.racewalk.com)
Indoors
If the weather’s bad, your daylight hours are jammed, or your neighborhood’s not
walking-friendly, there’s always the treadmill at your local health club. Or buy a
home unit (http://www.treadmillbynet.com/diamond.html). Many communities also offer mall-walking
programs, where you can cruise the local indoor mall before it opens for business.
The Track
Looking to improve? A track is a good place to work on your speed and form. It’s
safe, the surface is forgiving, and you know exactly what distance you’re covering.
Your local high school or community college probably has a track that’s open to the
public between sports events and practices.
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