Spring is here, and that means nicer weather and longer daylight hours 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. 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 being overweight. Regular physical activity can lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, depression and falls in older adults.

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 and doesn’t require specific skills or fancy workout clothes and equipment.

Need some motivation to get started but don’t have time to attend a class? Get WalkIN’ is an email-based walking program being offered through Purdue Extension Jackson County.

Participants can sign up, walk on their own and receive emailed support and information. Those who choose to participate will be asked to complete three short online surveys.

Any resident of the county who is 18 and older may enroll.

Again this year, in-person walks will be offered at various locations in Jackson County for people to walk together.

To register or for information, contact Molly Marshall at [email protected] by May 1. The program begins May 2.