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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
Begin Walking 30 Minutes a Day
Submitted by Marilyn Gordon Ed.D., RDN CSSD LDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Food and fitness go hand in hand. The American Heart Association recognizes April 1 as National Walking Day. Walking is a great way to intersperse physical activity into a sedentary day. The goal is to walk for 30 minutes 5 days per week. Try walking to your meeting across campus instead of taking the Shark Shuttle. Stroll to your coworker’s desk instead of sending an email. Take the stairs instead of the elevator and park far away from your office or final destination. Here on the NSU main campus, there are sidewalks from one side of the campus to the other. The Gold Circle lake sidewalk makes a wonderful, scenic walking path.
Prior to your midday walk, have a “smart snack” such as a piece of fruit, an ounce of nuts, a cup of yogurt, or a few whole grain crackers to energize you. This will help you to walk faster and longer. Take a bottle of water with you because even though it is only April, our weather is warm and humid so you can experience dehydration quite easily. Try to drink at least 4-6 ounces of water every 15 minutes while out walking.
At the end of your day, taking a walk after dinner makes it easier to resist eating dessert. After enjoying a leisurely dinner, clean the kitchen, and then gather the family for a walk around the block. Walking will improve your digestion, help you to relax, and prepare you for a good night’s sleep.