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Walking Programs

Franciscan Health and Heart Walking programs and log

Walking is one of the best things you can do for your heart health. A regular walking program can help reduce the risk of heart disease by strengthening the heart muscle and lowering your blood pressure and resting heart rate. At Franciscan, we support several walking program that can help you get the exercise you need!

Free personal Health Walker log

To track your walking progress we offer a free online walker log for you to record your personal improvements by either steps or by miles. As your steps and your miles add up you will be able to receive both rewards and health and fitness tips.

 

Club Fit Health Walk at the Commons Mall in Federal Way

Club Fit at the Commons Mall in Federal WayFranciscan Health System offers the Club Fit walking program at the Commons Mall half mile mall track in Federal Way. For more information and mall times visit www.tcafw.com.

 

Take a Healthy Walk on the Wild Side at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Take a Walk on the Wild Side encourages everyone to take a walk on the one mile designated path in the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium as part of a regular fitness program. For more information about the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and for zoo hours go to www.pdza.org.

 

Start! American Heart Association’s Walking program

Start! American Heart Association’s Walking Program Together with the AHA, Franciscan is proud to lead the way as the sponsor of the Start! Walking program in Pierce County. This Groundbreaking program calls on Americans and their employers nationwide to get active and stay healthy though walking. You can participate as an individual or you can get your company involved. To find out how you can walk your way to better health, visit www.americanheart.org today!

 

Tips for healthy walking success

  • Consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
  • Warm up and cool down. Do some light stretching or walk 5-7 minutes as a slower pace before and after your walking workout.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink water before, after and even while you walk.
  • Start gradually and build up distance over time.
  • Pace yourself. You should be able to comfortably carry on a conversation while walking. If you need a little more exertion, you can increase your heart rate by pumping your arms as you walk.
  • Bring a buddy with you to help you stay committed.
  • Set a goal and work toward it.