Regular physical activity is vital for good physical, social and emotional health. Some benefits of walking include:
Eases Joint Pain
Boosts Immunity
Improves Mental Health
Tones Legs
Sparks Creative Thinking
Extends Your Life
While there is a risk of injury with any type of physical activity, the benefits of staying active far outweigh the risks.
Social Distance:
This is an activity that must be done alone or with a household member
Remember to bring a mask and social distance when you're walking outside
You can reduce your risk of exercise injury by:
Wearing the right shoes
Drinking water and staying hydrated
Warming up and stretching properly
Being aware of your surroundings—always exercise and compete in a safe and level area clear of any obstacles or items
Maintaining social distancing rules (stay at least six feet away from others)
Stop exercising and seek medical help if you experience symptoms such as:
Discomfort or pain
Chest pain or other pain that could indicate a heart attack, including pain in the neck and jaw, pain traveling down the arm or pain between the shoulder blades
Shortness of breath
A rapid or irregular heartbeat
Tips for staying safe while walking:
Walk in areas designated for pedestrians, look for well-lit areas.
If you walk in the evening or early morning hours (when dark), wear a reflective vest or carry a flashlight.
Drink plenty of water before and after your walk to stay hydrated.
Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn, even on cloudy days.
The health and safety of the Special Olympics Northern California (SONC) community, including our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and employees, is our top priority. Please visit our webpage for current resources, links and information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
View our updated Return-to-Activities page for specific information on health requirements and guidelines for sports participation.