"Step into Spring" with 90-day walking program

“Step into Spring” is an exciting 90-day community walking program that kicks off on April 4, 2013 from 4:00-5:30 p.m. at the Clubhouse of the Coeur de Royale Condominiums at 551 Coeur de Royale Drive in St. Louis County. The kick-off event will feature healthy snacks, free pedometers, and speakers.

Residents of the St. Louis Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC), in conjunction with AARP Missouri, sponsors this effort designed to promote healthy behaviors. The walking program, open to all ages interested in walking for fun and fitness, grew out of a walking program that was piloted last year. From April through June, walkers can meet others on scheduled walking dates that are on the NORC calendar at www.jewishinstlouis.org/norc, create their own walking routines with others in their community, or walk on their own.

After a brief orientation to the 90-day “Step into Spring” activity, a personal trainer will teach/demonstrate stretching for walking, a Ten Toe Express representative will explain opportunities to hour others for guided walks, and speakers will present information on topics such as:

• Choosing the right walking shoes
• Planning energy-rich food before walking
• Building a walking habit
• How to use a pedometer

“Step into Spring” also provides an opportunity to participate in exercise activities for those wishing to compete in the St. Louis Senior Olympics that will be held May 23-28 at the Jewish Community Center in Creve Coeur. Once again, AARP Missouri will be a sponsor of the games and all persons 50 years of age and older are encouraged to participate. For more information on the annual event, visit www.stlouisseniorolympics.org.

The 90-day walking program is open to NORC residents and individuals of all ages interested in healthy behaviors. Participants are encouraged to register by contacting Joan Hirst at jhirst@jfedstl.org or 314.442.3834.  Opportunities are available to be a volunteer walking leader by contacting Peggy Neufeld at neufeld.peggy@gmail.com.