Poll Results: Walking Rules!
Category: Health and Wellness Issues
April 25, 2024 — We expected that walking would be your favorite physical activity – but not by the margin this margin. Almost half (47%) of people taking our poll chose walking for how they like to stay active. After that it was a toss-up, with swimming, pickleball, biking, and golf the most popular other choices. Only 3% said they do nothing – whew!
The most unusual activity choice was a rebounder, which Velcroman has been using since 1977. It is a mini trampoline, about 36-42″ diameter. The theory is acceleration of the entire body against gravity that trains all the muscles and organs. Wow, how interesting! Others use a variety of exercises to stay fit. We applaud everyone who is staying active, after all, “Sitting is the new smoking!” Keep old age at bay – stay active.
Here is the link to all of our past Surveys and Polls.
Comments on "Poll Results: Walking Rules!"
Admin says:
Here is a question for everyone. Do you subscribe to a "number" that is your step goal for the day? Some people think 10,000 is the right one, others have a different idea. Personally, I feel pretty good if I get over 10k.
Frances says:
We are power walkers and walk 30 minutes as often as 5-7 days a week. Studies have found that walking for 30 minutes per day, five days a week, may reduce your risk of coronary heart disease by 19 percent. It builds strength and muscles in your body. This study just recently came out and I am happy that we are doing it. I have lost 20 pounds and my BP has returned to normal limits for my age.
RichPB says:
With a degenerative lower back condition, walking just around the house is difficult let alone walking for exercise. A brief, less than quarter mile walk with my dogs is all I can manage. But recently it tried and then bought a stationary recumbent "bicycle" which has completely become my goto exercise alternative. Not only can I decently exercise my lower body for the first time several years, but the cost is much less than gym membership and I don't have to leave my house. The recumbent is now the primary exercise venue in addition to my back PT. Highly recommend to try if you have issues that limit walking (let alone running!). One of my physical therapists recommended trying it -- worth checking with your fitness guide.
Bill Bamber; Edmonton Alberta says:
Hey Richey; Thought about a Stationary Bike but thought again that I would miss being told how to live my life!!
Admin says:
Although it might not always be appropriate for people of retirement age, a new study reports that running is a better form of exercise than walking. Don't get it wrong, walking is great (and infinitely better than doing nothing), but the increase output of running seems to have better health effects. Always consult with your medical professional before starting any exercise program.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/14/well/move/walking-running-health-benefits.html?ugrp=m&unlocked_article_code=1.lU0.eObb.pfOVNwXlEzNF&smid=url-share
Stevo says:
I loved to run in my youth, it was the best exercise ever both mentally and physically but I believe to continue to do so after say 60 is a bad idea. I would suggest picking up the pace when walking or even better hike. Hiking or walking up a hill will give you a much better workout than lollygagging around on flat terrain. .
I'm an organizer for several Meetup.com hiking groups and can tell you there are people in their 80's who are extremely fit from just hiking several times a week. If you use polls (which you should) there is also some toning benefit for your arms! Then there is the "out in nature, away from it all" effect for your mental well being too!