Walking – it doesn’t take any special equipment or training – and it’s one of the healthiest, least harmful forms of exercise.A 1999 report in the New England Journal of Medicine showed a direct correlation between walking and a healthy heart. The 1986 study examined 72,488 nurses between age 40 and 65. After eight years, women who walked three hours a week at a brisk pace had a substantial reduction in coronary disease. In addition, women who weren’t active until later in life improved their cardiovascular system by starting a walking program.One can supplement any exercise program by walking, instead of driving. Many people in Falcon live close enough to walk to the grocery store or the banks.Woodmen Hills and Meridian Ranch provide trails and sidewalks that lead to the center of town. One path starts on Woodmen Hills Boulevard, three-tenths of a mile east of Meridian Road. Take the trail south until it crosses Eastonville Road, then continue east to join the Rock Island Trail. Hikers also will find a southern path shortly after crossing Eastonville Road that heads to the Falcon commercial area.The newest county plan for Paint Brush Hills, the subdivision located north of Stapleton Drive and west of Meridian Road, shows a number of trails. While the trail system hasn’t been developed, this area has plenty of open space for hiking. Plans for the Santa Fe Springs subdivision also show miles of trails throughout the development.Andre Brackin, El Paso County project manager for Woodmen Road, said when the road is widened it will have a lane set aside for bicycling and hiking. He promised the lights at Woodmen and Meridian roads will be pedestrian friendly. Meanwhile, the old Woodmen Road lanes can be a peaceful and safe place to walk. A tunnel that allows pedestrians to cross under Woodmen Road will one day serve as a path to the commercial area of Falcon Highlands.The American Medical Association claims walking can help reduce body fat, and improves the strength and flexibility of muscles and joints, while releasing serotonin into the brain, which relieves anxiety, stress and depression.Walking makes people look and feel good, something to remember on the hike back home.
