Walk With Ease

Walk with Ease is an evidence-based Wellness Program that uses the simple activity of walking to improve health and well-being. Walking is an excellent and simple form of exercise that’s good for nearly everyone, from absolute beginners to people who have been active for years. Many of our participants have used walking sticks, canes, walkers, or other assistive devices. Walk with Ease simply helps you to make walking a more formal lifestyle, and helps you along the way in a manner that is appropriate for you!

Program Elements

• Participants agree to undertake a 6-week walking regimen, walking three times a week. This can be as little as 10 minutes, or as much as 30 minutes. We walk together as a group once a week, and then you pledge to walk twice more before the next session.
• Participants get the most out of the program when they record their activities, as well as measurable walking progress (such as time or distance), to see their progress over the six-week period.
• Each week includes a brief (5 to 10 minutes) lesson examining some aspect of walking, such as joint health, proper breathing, stretching, joint pain, and walking.
• All participants receive a 175-page book detailing the program and including all forms for recording progress, at no cost.

Program Locations

Brownsville

Brownsville Library
41 Brownsville-Hartland Road, Brownsville
Contact Ginger Mason – 802-484-7238

Londonderry

Neighborhood Connections
5700 Vermont Rte 100 Suite 1500, Londonderry
Contact Thom Simmons – 802-824-4343

Thetford

Latham Library
Thetford Elder Network
Contact  Sue Rump – 802-785-4029

Walk With Ease FAQ

I see this was developed by the Arthritis Foundation. Is this only for people with Arthritis?

No! It is approved for all seniors, including those with forms of arthritis and those without. If you simply want to improve your fitness level, breathing or circulation, this is for you!

Do I have to be able to walk well to participate?

No! Walk with Ease can be used by those with joint replacements, or who use assistive devices such as a cane or walker. It starts where you are comfortable, whether you have difficulty or have been walking vigorously for years.

Is this a Group Activity, or can I do it myself?

Walk with Ease is designed to work both ways! The self-directed program allows you to do this on your own, and you will receive the same information and guidance as a group program. The Group Program, however, often yields better results, due to the shared commitment and encouragement between members. In addition, the Group Program receives instruction each week by a certified leader in the program. In most groups, the Group will meet for instruction, warm up, and stretching exercises, and walk together one day a week, and then participants promise to walk twice more each week. Of course, you may wish to walk with one or more members from the same group for encouragement and companionship!

What are the qualifications of the Group Leader?

The Group leader is certified by the National Arthritis Foundation and has passed a teaching exam issued by the National Academy of Sports Medicine. For those who would like to become certified to lead other groups, Senior Solutions will financially sponsor new leaders!

Are any special shoes, clothing or equipment needed?

Dress for the weather and your comfort! Do not go out and buy new shoes – that is likely to cause blisters and be unpleasant for you. If you use a walker or cane, bring it!

What if the weather or air quality is poor?

No one is expected to be uncomfortable, cold, wet, overheated, or experience breathing problems! If possible, walking indoors or alternative walking days will be scheduled.

What is the cost?

Absolutely free to those 60 or over, and their spouses or caregivers regardless of age. We do have a simple registration form and liability release.

So how do I start?

Call our HelpLine at 802-885-2669.