Steve Huppert
hupps440@aol.com
A lot of people like to walk. It is hard to beat. You can do it at any time, at any speed or distance. It is a great way to make friends and develop long-term relationships.
The best thing about walking is the cost. Get a good pair of walking shoes, which will cost seventy dollars, and you are set for 500 miles. Some walkers have their special walking attire, which is great, particularly women who want to show of the latest style of walking cloths something to talk about as they walk.
In a recent story in the newspaper mentions how we want to present ourselves. We want to dress well, speak properly, be a good person, and set an example for others.
A commitment to exercise is part of your persona, while taking care of yourself and showing others that you are dedicated and value good health. People see that and recognize it as part of who you are.
Sometimes when the weather gets ugly like it was this past month, we start thinking I will wait until tomorrow to do something. Who wants to get out in the wind, and the freezing temperatures. I am going to wait until it is 70.
In Christiansburg there are several locations for springtime walking even on rainy days, one being the Up Town Mall. I think you can walk around the interior twice for a mile. It is flat, lots of stores to look at as you walk by, with a bathroom and coffee shop on the route. The mall is well lit, temperature is super and you will be walking with numerous couples who are with you trying to stay in shape for summer bathing suits.
While walking in or around the mall it would not hurt to stop at a retailer; they would appreciate your business.
Another indoor location is the Christiansburg Recreation Center. They have a track that goes around the four basketball courts. Do it eight times and you have a mile. Restrooms and water are available, with plenty of walking company. The track always has walkers going an assortment of speeds. I do feel bad when I get lapped by someone or some group. At least I don’t get stopped for speeding.
One thing about spring, it’s 40 degrees one day and 70 the next. When it hits the fifties, it is a great time to get outside for a short time. We in Christiansburg are fortunate to have some wonderful trails right in our backyard. The Huckleberry Trail and Park offer great scenery and it’s a comfortable area to walk in.
Depot Park, which is between Kroger and the aquatic center, offers a flat track with a playground for the kids. Five trips around for a mile. It is not far from Pizza Inn, so if you get hungry walking, pizza is close by.
We cannot forget the Christiansburg Aquatic Center. What a great way to get some exercise. The aquatic center is one of the best in the state, and the cost is easy to handle for everyone.
Go into spring in great shape while you are getting some fresh air.
