We encourage both our bariatric surgery and lifestyle clientele to incorporate regular exercise into their weekly routines, but where is a good place to start? If getting a gym membership seems daunting and running is a bit too taxing for you, it’s a great idea to start walking. Numerous studies have been conducted that show regular walking can be beneficial for one’s health. Because of its popularity and convenience, we wanted to highlight some of the benefits of walking and some great places to do so in Reno.

Quick Facts: We took a medically reviewed online quiz. Even we were surprised at some of the answers. Here’s what we found:

  • Research shows you’re likely to live longer if you walk at least: 5 miles per week
  • Women who walk 30 minutes a day may cut their risk of stroke by: 20% – 40%
  • If you walk 10,000 steps, you’ve gone about: 5 miles
  • Brisk walking counts as cardio exercise. True
  • Walking is as good for your heart as running. True, if you do enough of it
  • You should do this many minutes of brisk walking each week if you want to lose weight: About 300
  • Take your dog for a half-hour walk, and you may burn about: 100 Calories
  • To boost your mood, try taking a walk in: A leafy, natural area
  • If you have arthritis, you should: Walk regularly for exercise
  • If you have back pain, you should: Walk 20 to 40 minutes two or three times a week
  • Walking is good for your bones because it’s: A weight-bearing exercise

Quiz courtesy of WebMD

Now that you have learned some of the benefits of walking, where are some great places to do it? We asked around the office and looked online for some starters on where to walk for weight loss in Reno. Here’s what we came up with:

  • Rancho San Rafael Park: With tons of greenery and dogs-a-plenty, this is a great destination. There are mellow walkways and even a couple play structures for kids.
  • Reno Riverwalk District: Scenic views and shops in arguably Reno’s most beautiful corridor. There are many events in this area too, including festivals and markets.
  • Virginia Lake Park: This small lake offers tranquil views and shade on those hot days.
  • Brown’s Creek: Pine trees and a beautiful creek make this a nice walk through the woods.

The overall message we can gather from this information is that one really doesn’t have to walk a marathon distance to experience positive effects on the body. We recommend incorporating a walking schedule into your day-to-day activities to aid your bariatric surgery or non-surgical weight loss program. Who knows, it may take you to some new places in Reno that you have never been.