For many years, walking groups have been a popular option for people looking to achieve their basic fitness goals with the support of those around them. Participants of walking groups can motivate each other to walk regularly and to obtain the numerous health benefits that walking provides.
Walk with a Doc is a local walking group event held on the second Saturday of every month. It provides a great opportunity for local residents to meet, exercise together and benefit from the unique perspectives of physicians.
About Walk with a Doc
Started in 2005 in Columbus, Ohio, Walk with a Doc is now in multiple corners of the country. As walking is a low-impact activity with numerous health advantages, Walk with a Doc is aimed at individuals to walk more often. At the same time, participants have a platform to ask local physicians any health and wellness-related questions they may have.
BMI of Texas recently teamed up with the Methodist Cardiology Clinic and Texas IPS to promote the Walk with a Doc program in San Antonio. This walking group meets on the second Saturday of every month, with participants convening at the Al Becken Pavilion in McAllister Park at 9 a.m. Following the physician consultation, participants take a 1- to 2-mile walk around McAllister Park.
The health benefits of walking groups
As well as being easier on the joints than many other forms of activity, walking is the ideal type of exercise for patients who are overweight, have heart complications or suffer from orthopedic ailments. It also offers the following benefits:
Improves lung power
Walking groups enable you to increase your lung power over time. As you engage in physical activity, you’ll take deeper and more frequent breaths that keep the lungs active.
Boosts mood
Walking groups are an excellent way to socialize and stay fit at the same time. Research shows that people who stay physically active tend to be happier than those who don’t—and because walking groups promote interaction with other people, you can form new friendships and enjoy good conversation as you exercise.
Increases physical activity
When walking is a group activity, you’ll work as part of a team to achieve your fitness goals, meaning everyone can feed off the energy of others to keep moving.
Improves your balance
Did you know that walking improves balancing skills by strengthening the muscles of the legs, back and abdomen? This will help you to remain steady and improve your spinal health over time.
Through San Antonio’s Walk with a Doc event, you can take advantage of numerous health benefits for your mind and body! Come join us—and if you have any questions beforehand, don’t hesitate to reach out.