May 2025 Challenge

Sometimes you just need to challenge yourself. Throughout the year so far I have focused on increasing my walking and running miles and that has been amazing. I have enjoyed watching the PNW wake from the dark winter with colorful flowers in the gardens and wildflowers in the forest. The bike commuting weather has also been great and the path is complete with herons, beavers, and ducks.

I decided that for May I should add an extra challenge of tracking all my miles of walking, running, and biking. I will also track my driving miles with the goal of fewer driving miles compared to the active miles.

There are so many health benefits to increasing walking and reducing driving. Walking and biking can reduce stress by reducing blood pressure, reducing anxiety, and improving overall health and wellness. Since I will be doing these activities outdoors there is the added benefit of taking some deep breaths in nature among the trees.

Multiple research studies are demonstrating the health benefits from simply walking daily. The act of brisk walking can improve sleep, strengthen bones and muscles, prevent or manage cardiovascular disease, and strengthen the immune system. The best way to get these benefits is to get at least 150 minutes a week of brisk walking.

If you are new to walking, start slow and gradually increase your walking time and pace to continue to see benefits. It is also great to incorporate hills or stairs in your walks to increase strength and cardiovascular fitness.

What is your May challenge? Follow here to see how many miles I complete throughout the month.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/walking/art-20046261

photo credit: @StevenMortison and @DaybreakRacing

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