In October 2003 I went for my first physical in many, many years. The
truth is, I had avoided going to the doctor because I was overweight,
and had been for some time. I'd tried various diets and exercise
programs over the years, but nothing lasted. I wasn't just overweight,
I was obese, just like many Americans. But at that doctor's visit, I
got a huge wake up call. My cholesterol was through the roof: 339
total. I was 32 years old, dangerously overweight, and with high
cholesterol to boot. What did I do? I vowed
to get healthy, and I got to work reading and researching, learning
everything I could about a healthy diet and exercise. I started a low
fat, low cholesterol diet, and I started walking for exercise every
day. I won't kid you: it's been hard, and lots of times I really wanted
to quit. But I kept plugging away, little by little. Twelve months
later, I was over 100 pounds lighter and my cholesterol was back down
to normal levels. The bottom line: this stuff works. I can say without
exaggerating that walking has saved my life. I walk every day, even on
the days when it's raining or snowing or hot
or cold. The reason: I love it now, and it's an important part of the
healthy and fit lifestyle I've been able to establish.
My Mission
Now I want to share my love of walking. It's helped me to become an
active, fit person, and my hope is that it will do the same for you.
Maybe it already has, and if so, I'd love to hear your story. If you're just
starting out, I hope this will be the place to find the inspiration and
information to start your journey on the road to fitness and health,
walking one step at a time. Here's how to get
started.