6 Different Walking Styles Popular Among Boomers

Walking is one of the most popular physical activities for older adults. There are lots of documented benefits to walking. Since we’ve all done it, you would think people would know how to do it. Of course, they do. But it’s interesting to me how everyone walks differently. Take my very own Deaton Creek Parkway, for example. You can see examples of the different walking styles there every morning.

1. Dog walkers

There are the dog walkers, with their constant tug-of-war battle with Fido. They probably get a pretty good arm workout handling those leashes! Out of curiosity, I Googled the benefits of walking your dog and learned that it has many positive health outcomes. Here are just a few:

• Improved cardiovascular health
• Lower blood pressure
• Stronger muscles and bones
• Improved mobility
• Better mental health

Those dog walkers might be onto something!

2. The romantic couples

You know the kind. They hold hands and tend to walk at a slower pace, engrossed in their private world. Even walking past them, I feel like I’m intruding on some special moment! However, it’s never a bad thing to walk in pairs. Not only is it safer, but according to Psychology Today, exercising together with a romantic partner was associated with a greater positive mood during exercise. Like the dog walkers, the romantic couples might be onto something!

3. The strollers

Then, there are the strollers. They’re the pros of the walking world, consistent with their walking routine. They know how to walk at a comfortable pace for a moderate distance. Oftentimes, they wear earbuds and listen to music or podcasts as they walk. They don’t let anyone distract them from their goals. While some people might scoff at the strollers, wondering if their slow pace is actually bettering their health, I commend them. Walking slowly at a moderate pace is more beneficial than sitting in front of the TV; that’s for certain!

4. Social walkers

Surprisingly, we have very few social walkers in my active adult community. You know the kind. They tend to walk in small groups, chatting and then encouraging each other with a “See you next time.” I did this type of walking at the Johns Creek Senior Center and had the best time. We rarely missed a day in two years of walking. As you can imagine, walking with friends offers countless benefits! Here are a few that a quick Google search uncovered:

• Boosts your mood and cognitive health
• Can reduce your risk of developing heart disease, depression, arthritis, dementia, and even diabetes
• Creates positive memories
• Can foster a strong sense of belonging and community
• Can increase oxygen and blood flow

Wow! Reading all this makes me miss my walking group from the senior center. Maybe I’ll try to create a new walking group with some other folks who live in my active adult community.

5. Fitness walkers

Then there are the fitness walkers. The real dedicated ones who like to start early. They move pretty fast. Many are former runners. They still want the cardio from moving fast, but now that they’re older, walking is the better way to do that. Sometimes, the fitness walkers are also commuters. They migrate to the athletics fields or clubhouse. These are usually pretty good walkers, as they frequently tend to walk rather than drive. I admire their dedication and fortitude!

6. Distance walkers

Then there are the distance walkers. They start early and cover a lot of distance, going at least six miles at a time. Several people in our community frequently walk six miles, and even longer. Bruce, a retired veteran, told me that he once walked fifteen miles in a day. Needless to say, he’s a pro. Of course, science shows that distance walking is fantastic for your health. Not only does it lower your risk of heart disease, but it can even improve your self-esteem and reduce anxiety. And don’t forget those endorphins! Both your body and your mind will feel better after a nice, long walk.

Takeaway

All walking is good for you. Any chance you get to take a walk, do it. Better yet, make walking a daily part of your life. We’re fortunate to live here in an active adult community. Walking to and from places is easy and safe. Yes, we certainly are fortunate to live in an active adult community!

However, if you don’t live in an active adult community or within a reasonable distance of walking trails, don’t fret! You can still find out ways to get your steps in. Consider buying a treadmill. While expensive, they still offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• Weight loss
• Better heart health
• Enhanced memory and cognitive health
• Improved sleep quality
• Better mood
• Boosted joint and bone health
• Convenience
• Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression

Of course, treadmills are a great alternative when the weather isn’t so nice for outdoor exercise. You don’t have to brave the snow, wind, or rain when you have a treadmill. You can just throw on your walking shoes and some tunes, and get started! If a treadmill isn’t your thing, no worries! Check out these low-impact cardio walking workouts from our friend, Senior Fitness with Meredith!

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