Walking to Wellness
Anyone can reap the benefits of getting more movement into their day. The Walking to Wellness Program components are tailored for kidney patients who may struggle with energy levels.
Walking to Wellness
The Kidney Wellness Hub is pleased to provide the Walking to Wellness program. There are so many benefits to walking for kidney health that we have created two options to support you. Anyone can reap the benefits of getting more movement into their day. These plans are tailored for kidney patients who often struggle with energy levels and then start to lose some of their strength and mobility. However, whether you are starting with little movement, limited mobility, or already moving quite a lot you too can benefit from Walking to Wellness. Below you will find the various components that make up the program.
Exercise Snacks Plan
The Exercise Snacks Plan was created to help everyone build more movement in their day, promoting better kidney health and overall wellbeing. Exercise snacks are 2-10 minute bouts of movement following meals. Use the Exercise Snack Plan to help you build your strength, stability, and endurance to reduce your potential risk of injury while walking and prevent chronic disease.
Science shows that short bursts of exercise can be even more beneficial than longer workout sessions. “Best of all, once regular exercise becomes a normal part of your weekly routine, muscle becomes more sensitive to blood sugar and is capable of consuming more of it – even on days when you’re not exercising,” says researcher and assistant professor from the University of Toronto Jenna Gillen. Just eight minutes of activity after each meal is all it takes to meet the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. These small bursts of movement can make a big impact on your health. Start incorporating exercise snacks into your daily routine and feel the difference—it's easier than you think.
Learn how to use the Exercise Snacks Plan and explore the benefits of exercise for chronic disease management. We’ve also partnered with the University of Toronto’s Kinesiology Department, giving you the opportunity to book a personal session with a senior kinesiology student to receive a customized plan that meets you where you are and helps you get started.
On-Demand Warm Up and Cool Down
Warm-Up Exercises
Build strength, stability and endurance to reduce the risk of injury while walking.
Cool-Down Exercises
Prevent stiffness and promote recovery using these cool-down exercises after walking.
In-Person Walking to Wellness Meet-Ups
In-Person Walking to Wellness Meetups are coming to communities near you soon. Volunteer hosts will establish weekly in-person meetups at a community centre or track in your community. Participants are invited to register and drop in as their schedule allows. If you are interested in being a volunteer host or participant for a meetup in your community registration is now open. Hosts will be supported with collateral materials, training and a walking plan to help get everyone started. Register your interest today! Communities with the most interest will be prioritized to start first.
Established Walking Groups
Vancouver, BC, Science World Waterfront
First Saturday of the Month
Hosted by Mona 604.369.3540
Join the Walking to Wellness Meet-Up in Vancouver on the first Saturday of each month. Gather at noon, in front of the Science World on the Waterfront to walk with fellow community members. Everyone is welcome! Don't forget to download and share the poster with your family, friends, and colleagues.