Walking News: Your best workout partner may be your dog!

An obesity expert and professor of medicine at Northwestern said that dogs make great workout partners in winning the battle of the bulge, according to a new Forbes article. Research has shown that it’s easier to be physically active and stick with an exercise program when you team up with a workout buddy. But unlike human partners, who might make excuses for not wanting to go for a walk or run, a dog never will.

Wellness Article: It takes discipline

In this month’s “3 P’s” article, wellness editor Ken Potalivo shares his admiration for PGA Tour players and the discipline they need to suceed. Similarly, service professionals need to be disciplined and remain motivated to reach their goals. Learn more about Ken’s thoughts on productivity, passion and purpose here.

Wellness Article: Keep moving, but avoid overexertion

Overexertion is a scary thing — something that even the fittest of the fit aren’t immune to. WalkStyles fitness editor, Nan Kappeler, discusses overexertion and how to avoid it. During the summer months when we’re more active and the weather is warm, it’s especially important to keep these things in mind.

Walking News: Getting fit after 40

A doctor who authored the book Fitness After 40, says don’t assume that the fitness rules and the regimen that worked for you in your 20s and 30s will work for you over 40. “There’s a shortening of muscles and tendons, weakening of our bones, and a decrease in pathways between the brain and muscles that can hurt our balance,” she says. On the brighter side, her research shows that we can continue to achieve high levels of performance into our eighth decade. Read more here!

Walking News: Getting healthy at work

According to a survey by a benefits consulting firm, nearly two-thirds of large employers planned to transfer more of the cost of healthcare benefits to employees. At the same time, one-third planned to put greater emphasis on wellness plans, to encourage employees to adopt healthier lifestyles. The New York Times reports on wellness plans here.

Walking News: Why we love to walk

The Seattle Times reports that walking is by far the most popular exercise in the nation. It’s convenient, inexpensive, can burn calories, build muscle tone and improve balance. It’s easy, but you can make it more challenging if you want a tougher workout.

Wellness Article: Layoff Action Plan

As part of the country-wide downsizing trend, have you been laid off? WalkStyles Balance editor, Toddi Gutner, offers an action plan for layoff survivors in this month’s balance article. From being proactive to avoiding negativity, Toddi’s advice will help you remain focused during this trying time.

Walking News: Walking Teams Take Manhattan

On any given day, almost half the women in the United States are on a diet. But it’s a succession of small steps that will insure the pounds come off — and stay off. New York women, who fight fat by walking in groups at lunchtime, are profiled in this article from the New York Daily News. According to the leader of one group, a big part of why the team approach is successful is the social aspect, as walking with others keeps you motivated and accountable.

Walking News: Congress plans incentives for healthy habits

The New York Times reports that one of President Obama’s eight principles for health legislation is that it must “invest in prevention and wellness”. Congress is planning to give employers sweeping new authority to reward employees for healthy behavior, including better diet, more exercise, weight loss and smoking cessation. Learn more about ICount Wellness corporate programs here!

Walking News: Walking may help prevent osteoporosis

An estimated 80 million Americans have osteoporosis, commonly called “bone-thinning disease”, and 80 percent are women. “Anything that makes bone bear weight is good for bone quality,” said the head of orthopedic spine surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital. While walking cannot restore bone already lost, it can help preserve bone density, according to a spine specialist at New England Baptist Hospital. Read more in the Boston Globe!