HOT PURSUIT

Walking has become a regular part of my life over the years. I know runners and joggers are probably dismayed with me, but I’ve settled for walking.

But it’s not just any walk. I try to keep a brisk pace, which probably comes close to rivaling a slow jog.

I usually log on about 3½ to 4 miles each time I go out walking. It takes me about an hour to hit the finish line. I’m definitely not setting any records, but I usually feel good about myself after walking.

Much to my chagrin, a recent visit to the doctor’s office for a regular physical sent my enthusiasm for walking and its benefits right off the sidewalks and into the no man’s land.

When confronted about walking and losing weight, my doctor basically made it sound like my walking really wasn’t being of any huge benefit because I’m not achieving any weight loss. It made me begin to wonder if this doctor is for real.

My weight is pretty much stuck in one spot, which maybe isn’t the worst thing in the world. But it would be nice to trim off a few pounds after devoting several hours every week to walking.

And, of course, if you go by those lovely medical charts, I’m in the obese category. 

It’s a little frustrating to me when you hear conflicting information about whether something is good, bad, ugly or indifferent. I’ve always been led to believe that walking is one of the best things you can do, especially for an old man like me approaching his mid-50s.

For now, I’m going to just keep focusing on the “positives” I’ve come to know about walking. Among them is preventing or managing various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer and Type 2 diabetes. Others are improving cardiovascular fitness, strengthening bones and muscles and improving muscle endurance.

Many reports indicate that just 30 minutes every day can be a healthy boost to one’s overall health.

I’ve even heard some claim that walking can be more beneficial than running.

While I may not be shedding the pounds, I like to believe that walking is providing me with many other health benefits.

Perhaps one of the most important benefits I have found is how walking improves my overall mood and attitude toward this crazy world. Walking reportedly alleviates depression. I don’t think I’m anywhere close to being depressed, but a little attitude adjustment doesn’t hurt anyone’s soul.

This year I’ve also started wearing air pods, which my kids gave to me as a gift. Now while cruising along walking, I can listen to my favorite music (mostly 80s). It gives me a little extra spring in my step.

Perhaps it’ll get me to a faster pace that will help me register a little more activity on the scale (downward, I hope).

Speaking of walking, it’s time for me to go in hot pursuit of my daily walk.