Spring is here, and that means nicer weather with more time spent outdoors.

Why not take this opportunity to start walking and moving more? Walking is a popular form of physical activity and good for your health.

If you need some motivation to get started but don’t have time to attend a class, Purdue Extension Jackson County is offering Get WalkIN’, an email-based walking program. Participants can sign up, walk on their own and receive emailed support and information. They also will be asked to complete three short online surveys.

Any resident of the county 18 and older may enroll. The program begins April 26. New to the program this year will be in-person walks, where participants will meet at various locations in the county and walk together.

Anyone interested in participating or wanting more information may email Molly Marshall at [email protected] by April 25.

Marshall, the health and human sciences extension educator for Jackson County, said only half of all American adults get the recommended amount of physical activity. Lack of physical activity is directly related to the occurrence of adult obesity and overweight.

Regular physical activity can lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, depression and falls in older adults. Marshall said walking is an excellent way for most people to increase their physical activity and an easy way to start and maintain a physically active lifestyle. Walking is accessible to almost anyone, doesn’t require specific skills or fancy workout clothes and equipment.