Walk Andrews' path for exercise
FROM STAFF REPORTS Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

For every two laps, neighborhood walkers in Plantation Hill in Gulf Breeze, can count over one mile in their exercise regiment thanks to a sidewalk that circles the Andrews Institute next to Gulf Breeze Hospital.

The sidewalk that circles the perimeter of the Institute is .58 miles in length and offers another safe alternative to those that might run, jog or walk their neighborhood streets. Walkers and runners can park for free at the Institute and begin their exercise.

Andrews staff offered five tips for starting a walking program:

Find a buddy.

Use a pedometer.

Schedule regular walks in a PDA or calendar.

When chronic medical problems such as heart disease or diabetes are present, walkers might want to check with their doctor to make sure a walking program is safe.

Start slowly if needed. Seven health benefits of walking include:

Improvement of cardiovascular function and possibly a reduction in the chances of having a heart attack.

Potential weight loss or weight control.

Reduction in blood pressure.

Has been found to be helpful in the prevention and treatment of depression.

Has a positive impact on the health of people with diabetes.

Helps build endurance and muscle strength.

Helps build and maintain bones and muscles.

For more information about the Andrews Institute, visit www.theandrewsinstitute.com.