Things to Do & Places to Stay
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Walk for Fitness
Walking is a simple form of exercise that is perfect for maintaining overall physical fitness. This is a fun form of exercise that can be done alone, with a friend or in a group. Walking is free, doesn’t require any special equipment and we already know how to do it.
So try turning a morning coffee break into a quick stroll around the block. Instead of a sit down lunch, try taking a brown-bag to the park and then walking the long way back to the office. Trade in the afternoon smoke and walk for fun and fitness.
Benefits of exercise
- Strengthens Heart
- Tones Muscles
- Improves Blood Circulation
- Reduces Blood Pressure
- Reduces Body Fat
- Strengthens Bones
- Helps Manage Stress
- Improves Immune Function
- Increases Energy
- Improves Sleep Quality
Building Up Gradually
It is extremely important to begin any exercise regimen slowly. The six-week schedule above should get you off to a great start and give new walkers achievable goals. If you have not exercised in a long time, please remember to consult your physician before starting anything more advanced or strenuous.
| Week | Distance (3-4xWeek) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| One | 1/4 to 1/2 Mile | 10 Minutes |
| Two | 1/2 to 3/4 Mile | 15 Minutes |
| Three | 3/4 Mile to 1 Mile | 20 Minutes |
| Four | 1 to 1-1/2 Miles | 25 Minutes |
| Five | 1-1/2 to 2 Miles | 30 Minutes |
| Six | 2 Miles | 30 Minutes |
Measuring the Route
On the back, there are five onemile routes. But you don’t have to follow these. You can make up your own.
One mile is 5,280 feet long. In Downtown terms, this is approximately 16 to 19 typical blocks in length. Walk nine blocks in any direction, then turn around and come back. Or walk four blocks then turn – walk four more and turn again – walk four more then turn and head back to the start making a one-mile square.
Finally, time yourself walking one of the measured routes. If it takes 25 minutes to walk the route, then simply walk your own route for 25 minutes and you should be close to one-mile.
Having Fun
Exercise your mind while working on your body.
Walking is special because it can be social. Take a friend. Walking can be educational. Watch for historic landmarks along your route. Walking is best done outside. Look for birds and trees that you may not ordinarily notice.
As with any exercise program, it is important to keep it fun and entertaining. You will only keep walking as long as you like walking. So have fun doing it!
Walking maps
Follow this one-mile route if you are on the eastern end of Downtown or on the northern edge of the Capitol Complex.
Follow this one-mile route if you are in central Downtown or the southern edge of the Hinds County Complex.
Follow this one-mile route if you are on the western end of Downtown.
Walk the length of historic Congress Street and back for a one mile north/south route.
Walk the length of historic Capitol Street and back for a one-mile east/west route.