The Walk

Three weeks ago I decided to start walking each day.  It started with a short walk in the morning before my coffee. 

My coffee time is a sacred time for me.  I like to sit quietly and for a better word, meditate on the day to come.  I've done this for years.  It's become such an important part of me that if I don't get that time I find myself disjointed for the rest of the day.  My husband jokingly calls it my "Folgers Moment".

I didn't make a big deal out of this little walk.  I told myself it was just a "walk".  However, I felt I needed to get some exercise that raised my heart rate.  I used to climb stairs when I worked, but since I retired last year I haven't really done much to work on my heart rate and I think it's important to invest in it. 

I was lucky to retire at an age younger than most.  If I don't do something to keep my body in shape (besides riding) then I worry my health will suffer and I'd really like to be around for a long time.  Thus, I thought a nice little walk would be just the thing for me, accompanied (as always) by my Chocolate Lab, Hank.

So for the last three weeks off we go each morning rain or shine to take our walk before coffee.  I started with walking up and down the hill pictured above three times each day for the first week.  I increased it to six times each day on the second week. 

Hank would get confused.  He thought we were going inside every time I came back up the hill towards the house (he gets a dog treat each morning).  Hank would head to the door in anticipation only to find me heading the opposite direction, back down the hill.  He'd race to catch up with me and after the second lap, walk next to me.  I think he wants to make sure he doesn't miss his daily treat.

Last week (week 2) I found it interesting that my leg muscles were stronger when I rode.  It's true I've been riding a lot but it was more than just the leg muscles.  My balance is better, my form is better.  During my lesson my trainer noted the same.  I feel better when I ride.

This week I've upped the ante.  After all, it is week three and how many times can one walk up and down a short hill without someone looking out across the fields and thinking the poor women has lost her mind?  So this week I've started walking down to the end of our road, starting with three laps.

Yes, it is only a walk.  But I can say that I've found enjoyment in doing it.  I like looking out across our fields and noticing different things along my way, I like how I feel and that I'm doing something good for my health that also positively impacts my riding.  And of course there's my sidekick Hank, my good buddy, walking there next to my side!  :)