Spring is here, and the warmer weather is making everybody feel great! Now that it’s easier to move around outside, maybe you’re thinking that this is a good time to get into shape.

In the past, on the first really nice day I would get all excited, put on sneakers, and run a couple miles. After a few minutes, I would be feeling good, enjoying the sunshine and breeze, and I’d accelerate for quick bursts of speed. Most exhilarating! Then the next day I would wake up with pain all over my lower body. Just walking was difficult, and the pain would last for days, causing me to be disgusted with the whole idea of exercise. Then the running shoes would go back into the closet for a nice vacation until next year, and exercise would be relegated to remote-control thumb action. Does this sound familiar?

When spring has sprung, it’s very easy for enthusiasm to outstrip one’s physical ability. But then the resulting pain, sort of an exercise hangover, can give someone a permanently negative view of exercise. But the dirty little secret is, exercise doesn’t need to be painful, and there’s a good chance that it will make you feel good!

Now that I have many years of experience exercising, I have recognized the value of starting a workout program slowly, and gradually progressing. Even today, I sometimes catch myself trying to do too much too fast.

Why not start your exercise program with a short walk? If you do it right, you may not even notice that you’re exercising! In Eastwood there are many very pleasant neighborhoods. If you need something at a store that’s nearby, maybe a nice one- or two-block walk in the sun would be a refreshing change from driving.

Walking by yourself is too boring? Why not go with a friend and combine conversation with a nice walk, either through the neighborhoods or in Sunnycrest Park. Then you’re improving your health and your social life at the same time! You might even meet some neighbors.

Working in an office? Try taking the stairs a couple times a day instead of the elevator.

As you get accustomed to walking, before long you can try a somewhat longer walk. This very gradual type of progression can help avoid injury, and make you feel better and more energetic.

Hope to see you walking in Eastwood!

Also, why not take advantage of the wonderful Sunnycrest Park, which has walking paths, loads of sports options, and nice city views, all at little or no cost!