The Best Walk

Just about every time I take a walk in the woods somebody will asksme about ticks. It used to be that I would shrug my shoulders and say “I guess they’re not attracted to me.”. Well, last Spring one found me. I found it in my sock later that night. The issue of course is Lyme Disease. Well, it’s somewhat of an issue. It’s true that ticks cause Lyme Disease, but it’s also true that the disease is very rare. How many people do you know that have had a case of it?

So what should you do about ticks?

• Keep covered with long pants, long sleeve shirts, hat, socks, etc.

• If you spot a tick while walking, remove it.

• Use insect repellent with DEET or permethrin.

• Check yourself for ticks after the walk.

I guess another way to avoid ticks is to avoid walking in fields or in the woods. The problem with that is that you could be avoiding some of the best walks. My advice… Walk in the woods. Take the precautions seriously, but go for the walk. Lyme Disease presents a low risk. By taking the precautions, there’s almost no risk.

Filed under: General on October 24th, 2007 | No Comments »

If you haven’t seen someone walking down a sidewalk backwards, its quite a site. The first and only time I saw it was during our Hawaiian vacation. I was walking to Diamond Head in Wai Ki Ki and there he was - a faceless person coming towards me. He was walking at a good pace and get this… he moved to one side of the sidewalk seemingly knowing my exact position! I stopped and stared for a minute. Why not? This was a pretty good trick. I paid attention to the position of his face to see if he was looking behind at all. As a matter of fact he was looking around at the scenery with no concern at all about the other direction. Amazing!

I found out later that there is a reason why people do this. That will be explained in a minute. But at the time of my sighting, I knew nothing about it. So naturally I thought it was some kind of stunt.

Speaking of unusual walking, how about reading while you walk? Since changing jobs and consequent lunchtime walking areas I often see a women who walks while reading. She seems to read quickly (the page turning gives that away) and she walks fast. I was behind her and I almost had to run to pass her. This was very impressive! Not as impressive as walking backwards, but impressive. I can also say the like the backwards walking man, she was totally relaxed.

So what’s going on? Why do they do this?

Let’s talking about the title subject - the man walking backwards. Why would make him want to do it? According to http://www.bodyresults.com, here’s why:
People who may benefit from backward-walking training include anyone who:

1. Is undergoing post-surgical knee joint rehabilitation
2. Suffers from muscle strains of the hip, groin, hamstrings or lower back
3. Suffers from lower extremity injuries including sprained ankles, Achilles tears or shin splints
4. Has tried everything including ibuprofen, ice/heat treatments, complete time off from training, physical therapy, stretching, and more traditional strength training without sufficient results
5. Is looking for a different stimulus or cross-training option
6. Needs to be able to change directions rapidly and occasionally run backwards in his or her sport (such as soccer, football, basketball, rugby or lacrosse

What are the benefits?

From the same source:

Backward walking, either on flat or inclined terrain, eliminates the eccentric component of training on the knee joint. The eccentric, or lengthening component (i.e. lowering phase of going down hills or stairs) is usually what causes hikers, trekkers, scramblers and climbers the most problems with their knees. By removing that component in training, you allow the body to continue to train while increasing cardiovascular capacity and strength endurance simultaneously, but also let the body heal from overuse or injury.

How did he learn how to do it?

Again, according to http://www.bodyresults.com, here’s how:

The simplest way to see if backward walking might work for you is to take 10 steps forward and 9 steps back (to return to start) and see if you experience discomfort in either direction. If you have no pain going backward, find a flat area clear of traffic and walk backward for 20-30 yards. Once you can do that 5-6 times, you can look for a slight elevation and walk backward up the hill. Most of us who are relatively active can walk forward at a comfortable pace of 2.5-3.5 mph. To begin a backward walking endurance program, start by walking backwards on a flat treadmill or track at a pace slightly reduced from your forward speed (perhaps 2-2.5 mph). This should raise your heart rate 30-40 beats per minute over your resting rate. As you feel more comfortable (perhaps 2-4 weeks of consistent effort 2-3 times/week), gradually increase your speed to your forward pace. For increased challenge, increase the treadmill elevation, walk backwards up a moderate hill, or jog backwards.

Regarding reading while walking, that’s a subject for another day. By the way, I wouldn’t try either.

Filed under: General on July 17th, 2007 | No Comments »

The Following information is from: http://www.walkinginfo.org

How many people walk?

The 1995 Nationwide Personal Transportation Survey, which covers trips of all kinds, 5.4 percent of trips were by walking. This represents 56 million daily walk trips covering 20 billion miles for the year.

Why do people walk?

For what purpose do people walk?

Why don’t people walk?

Filed under: General on July 15th, 2007 | No Comments »

Today’s lunchtime walk was different - different trail, different scenery, and a totally different location. I’ve never walked in this area before. This is because I’ve changed jobs and today I started walking at lunchtime near the new company. Today’s walk was exploratory – an attempt to determine the direction for future lunchtime walks. In other words I was just wandering around.

A job changes can be a stressful event. Mine was. I had worked for my last company for a bit over four years before I made a decision to change jobs. That’s not a long time to spend at a company, but it was in this case if you consider the travel, long hours and the working over weekends and holidays. I guess I felt like I was leaving a company that I felt connected to and as a result I had a lot of apprehension about giving my two week notice. But I did, and I was suddenly told that that would be my last day. I wasn’t the first to leave the company and go to where I’m at now – and they didn’t want any more! So basically, I received an unplanned paid two week vacation. Don’t get me wrong - I love vacations, but this one sure didn’t feel right.

But that’s behind me now. I’m now with a different set of faces, different technology, a new cube, and new “stuff” to do. As in any new job, I’ll soon have to justify my existence and assure them that hiring me was the right decision. I’ll also have to find a new walking area and if I’m lucky, a couple of walking buddies.

I found that walking is more common at the new company. So is running and biking. As a matter of fact they have a shower in two of the bathrooms and a third one in the company gym. Today’s walk was spent meandering and reading the names of the companies on the various entrances of nearby companies: Bose, EMC, American Superconductor, etc. I stayed on the same sidewalk and walked for a mile or so before cutting across a couple of the EMC parking lots. I was looking for a more interesting path. The parking lots are surrounded by woods and I found that a long drainage trench had been cut into the woods and was filled with rocks. On both sides of the trench, there are paths. On my next walk I’ll walk along those paths to see how far they go. Also, with such a large area of wooded land, I suspect that there are other paths. So I would say that the situation at the new company looks good for walking, after all, I still have quite a bit of stress to relive.

Filed under: General on July 3rd, 2007 | 1 Comment »

During a recent conversation I commented that litter is found on very few of the trails I use. I think that there are many reasons for this - all of them good. Perhaps the increased concern for the environment is now taking effect, but whatever the reason it definitely enhances the walking experience - the effects of nature are seen and felt more.

As important as litter prevention is, there are other ways to protect the walking areas. The following is from the Leave No Trace Code:

The Leave No Trace Code

Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
• Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
• Repackage food to minimize waste.
• Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.
• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
• Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.
• In popular areas:
• Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
• Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.
• Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.
• In pristine areas:
• Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.
• Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
• Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

Leave What You Find

• Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
• Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

Respect Wildlife

• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.
• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.
• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
• Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises

Filed under: General on June 25th, 2007 | No Comments »

Could The Best Walk be found in Memphis?

The other day I was searching for songs about walking to see if the lyrics would be worth writing about. I was looking for a song that would provide motivation to walk at a specific location. When “Walking in Memphis” popped up I immediately recalled the song’s sound. Although the lyrics are loaded with fantasies, I thing the song may inspire a few to visit Memphis. As a matter of fact, I know I would like to go to Memphis, see a few blues shows, and go for a long walk around the city. Since I’ve never been to Memphis, it’s hard to say if The Best Walk could be found there, but please feel free to comment if you have been there!

Walking In Memphis

Artist: Marc Cohn

Put on my blue suede shoes
And I boarded the plane
Touched down in the land of the Delta Blues
In the middle of the pouring rain
W.C. Handy - won’t you look down over me
Cause I got a first-class ticket
And I’m as blue as a boy can be

Walking in Memphis
Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel

Saw the ghost of Elvis
Down On Union Avenue
Followed him up to the gates of Graceland
I watched him walk right through
Now security they did not see him
They just hovered ’round his tomb
There’s a pretty little thing
Waiting on “The King”
Down in the Jungle Room

Walking in Memphis
Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
Do I really feel the way I feel

They’ve got catfish on the table
They’ve got gospel in the air
And Reverend Green be glad to see you
When you haven’t got a prayer
You’ve got a prayer in Memphis

Now Muriel plays the piano
Every Friday at the Hollywood
And they brought me down to see her
And they asked me if I would
Do a little number
And I sang with all my might
She said
“Tell me are you a Christain”
I said “Ma’am I am tonight”

Walking in Memphis
Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel

Walking in Memphis
Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel

Walking in Memphis

Filed under: General on June 24th, 2007 | No Comments »

Dog Walking Tips

Source: Condensed from About.com

1. Train your dog
2. Walk on leash
3. Walk where dogs are allowed to walk
   
4. Carry a pooper scooper
5. Carry water for both you and your pet
6. Allow the dog to rest
7. Identification Every dog should have a couple of forms of identification
8. Is Your Dog Ready? Before taking a dog on a 10K Volksmarch consider if the dog is healthy enough, has the desire, and is trained enough to walk the distance at your side. You should get an OK from your veterinarian if your pooch has any sort of medical problem, is overweight, etc. Work up to the longer distances with them by doing the shorter distances first.
9. Trails The dog walkers generally preferred country walks and trails that had sidewalks or paths well off the road.
10. Books to Explore “Running with Your Dog” by John A. Sanford and “On the Trail with Your Canine Companion, Getting the Most out of Hiking and Camping with Your Dog” by Cheryl S. Smith

Note: Another great source for all dog related information is: DogBoston.com - and, you don’t have to be from Boston to appreciate it!

Filed under: General on June 22nd, 2007 | No Comments »

From: www.sparkpeople.com

Walking outside is an energetic way to enjoy the fresh air and get a workout at the same time! Before you lace up those sneakers, here are some important safety tips you’ll want to consider to make your next walk The Best Walk:

• Find a buddy: Walking with someone can be a great motivator and make the time more enjoyable. In addition, there is always safety in numbers. If you do have to walk alone, make sure you tell someone your route and the time you expect to return.
• Wear reflective gear: If you will be out during the early morning or evening, wear light colored clothing or reflectors. A warm up suit with reflective strips, walking shoes with reflective material on the heel or a reflective belt (available at most sporting goods stores) will all make you more visible to oncoming traffic. Also try to walk on well-lit streets if possible.
• Walk facing the traffic: Especially if there are no sidewalks or pathways on your route, the “rules of the road” say you should walk against the traffic. This also keeps you aware of any potential danger coming towards you.
• Vary your route: This is for safety as well as enjoyment. It is much more interesting to experience different surroundings from time to time. This also prevents anyone from memorizing your route and perhaps knowing the best time to approach you.
• Beware of drivers: Do not assume that drivers know when pedestrians have the “right of way.” Be especially cautious of driveways- most drivers are watching for oncoming cars, not walkers.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Watch for ice, water, bike riders, cracks in the pavement, or any other hazards in your path. It can be very easy to trip and fall without warning, which can be especially dangerous if you are alone.
• What to bring: It is a good idea to carry pepper spray, a cell phone or an alarm in case you get into trouble. It can also be helpful to carry a walking stick or umbrella in case you need to fend off an unleashed dog. Maybe bring a dog of your own as a companion and for safety. Always have your I.D. with you in the event that you become disabled.
• What not to bring: Do not wear any jewelry that might draw someone’s attention. Do not wear headphones- they can prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic or someone coming up behind you. You should always be aware of what is happening in your environment.

With a few easy changes, you’ll make your walking experience as safe and enjoyable as possible!

Filed under: General on June 6th, 2007 | No Comments »

Is walking is a microcosm of life?

Generally my lunchtime walk is somewhat of a social event. My coworkers and I meet every work day noon. But due to a couple of vacation days, I walked alone today. And, when I walk along I tend to think more. Today’s thoughts were about whether walking is a microcosm of life or not. (No, I’m not crazy. The philosophical thoughts can be explained by a song I heard recently comparing a walk to life experiences.)

I considered that just like life…

• Each walk has a beginning and an end
• The length of a walk can be extended or shortened.
• The walk may present unforeseen challenges.
• You can change the direction of the walk.
• You choose the location of the walk.
• The conditions you walk in may vary.
• The walk may involve variety or can be repetitive.
• You can be in a hurry or take you time.

But I think the most important point I came up with was that..

• The walk is much more meaningful if you enjoy it.

Think about it. If you enjoy every walk you take, you are far more better off than those who force themselves to walk. Now think about your responsibilities, who you socialize with, and what your hobbies are. Are they enjoyable. When I’m walking, there is no doubt I’m doing what I want. If I can walk more - that’s better. Can I apply that logic to all other things in life? The sad answer is no and that’s the wrong answer! But enjoying every day (just like enjoying every walk) is the best way to live.

So I think that learning to enjoy the journey more is a great goal and for me, a good part of that is finding The Best Walk.

Filed under: General on May 25th, 2007 | No Comments »

For me, this week has been hectic. A situation came up which kept my wife and I out all of Monday night into Tuesday morning. Then, because of previous work commitment, I was unable to sleep late. The next morning even coffee couldn’t restore my energy. I was tired, only partially effective, and by lunchtime I was behind on my work. My immediate thought was to work through lunch and postpone my daily walk. I needed to catch up.

For the last year, I take a walk every day at lunch. Most days I walk with one or two of my coworkers. Some days I walk alone. For every day I walk its a better day. I’m more relaxed and my thinking is clearer. There’s also the exercise benefit, but what keeps me walking is that I just enjoy it - getting outside, the conversations, the fresh air. But that morning I was under stress. I was late on a couple of small projects and with a little more than two hours sleep I needed to push as hard as I could. Not only would I pass on the walk, I would not eat lunch. All I would do was work. Work. Work. Work.

Then I started thinking. What else could I sacrifice in order to catch up on work? Then one of my coworkers stopped by my desk and said that I looked pretty stressed. I smiled and said “Yeah - that’s the way I feel!”. After talking for a couple of minutes I started to relax. Then I suggested that it was time for a walk.

Why the sudden change? I thought about that as during my walk that day and decided that its about priorities. There are things we do every day that we always do. Those things may vary somewhat from person to person but virtually everyone behaves in a manner which they think will help them survive. So why the sudden change? I realized that for me walking fell into the highest category. Its part of my survival. The benefits of walking are too great (and there’s too much of a downside of not walking). Therefore I went for my lunchtime walk. It wasn’t The Best Walk- but it was a very important walk.

I returned to my desk with a fresh attitude and a couple of ideas on how to move my projects along. My only concern was why I considered skipping the walk in the first place.

Filed under: General on May 10th, 2007 | No Comments »

Walking Benefits Immune System

From: DH Owens of http://www.cyberparent.com/walks-walking/immunity-benefits.htm

In addition to other benefits, walking brings with it an immune enhancing benefit.

Even moderate levels of regular walking have been shown to enhance the immune system, helping our body fight off illness and even reducing the incidence of certain cancers.

How can walking enhance your immune system?

Exercise, including walking, has been proven to boost immunity by causing the body to produce more natural killer (NK) cells. These cells constantly monitor the areas germ enter out body and destroy any cell they dot recognize.

It helps health in other ways, too.

Walking and all physical activity increases blood flow and raises oxygen levels in the body. Oxygen stimulates the immune system to repair damaged tissue.

Regular walking reduces fat around your stomach. This helps to lower your insulin levels.

Regular walking can cut your risk of bowel cancer in half according to a report by the US Surgeon General.

Walking can play an important part in combating the depression, fatigue and stress that accompany daily life.

You need to walk everyday to continue to boost your immune systems because the benefits are short-term.

Filed under: General on May 4th, 2007 | No Comments »