Spring Perfect Walking Weather In Woodland

A beautiful spring rose I spied today while on my way

to the track over at Douglas Junior High School. I heard doves cooing, owls hooting and crows cawing while taking my urban hike south on the First Street sidewalk.

I like walking laps around the track at Douglas because I can walk backwards part of the lap as

well as forward.

Walking backwards not only uses different muscle groups; walking backwards also helps prevent inflammation of the tibialis anterior muscle. "Shin splints" is a common term for this type of muscle inflammation.

Another way to prevent "shin splints" is to strengthen the tibialis anterior muscle through toe taps. Toe taps can be done either

standing or sitting. Keeping your heel on the floor, lift your toes. (See photos right). Then tap your toes down. Do this 25 times with each foot. This is easy to do while waiting in line.

Repeat the sets a couple of times a day to avoid front of the shin soreness when starting a walking program.

And if you are being encouraged by your doctor to get moving more, walking in Woodland in the spring is beautiful. Just remember to start off with short distances and gradually increase distance. And take a water bottle with you to sip to stay well "watered".

I hope to see you out for a walk soon in our lovely city. Please feel free to comment on your favorite Woodland urban hike.